An intersectional analysis of the influences of Dalit women's activism on policy processes and women beneficiaries in Maharashtra, India

This thesis provides an intersectional analysis of Dalit women's activism and its impact on Maharashtra's policy process. Further, it shows the effects of the movement on Dalit women from Mumbai's slums when accessing the benefits of the Maharashtra government's micro-credit scheme for women's economic development. The research looks at the historiography of Dalit activism and Dalit women's participation in the movement and their autonomous organizing. This recounting of history is essential to situate Dalit women as emancipatory subjects, contrary to the development sector narrative that portrays them as victims and passive recipients of developmental program benefits. The study shows that Dalit women employ various strategies to impact policies and seek benefits, such as building strategic partnerships, state feminism, and even client patronage. However, it is challenging to influence the androcentric bureaucratic policy. It is nevertheless essential to highlight Dalit women's engagement as activists advocating for intersectional policy and beneficiaries.