An analysis conducted by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) has revealed a diverse range of educational qualifications among the 8,337 candidates contesting in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. The study highlights significant variations, from illiteracy to advanced degrees.
Key Findings
Illiterate Candidates: A total of 121 candidates have declared themselves illiterate.
Basic Education: 359 candidates have education up to the 5th grade.
Middle School Education: 647 candidates have reported education levels up to the 8th grade.
High School Education: 1,303 candidates have completed up to the 12th grade.
Graduate Degree: 1,502 candidates hold a graduate degree.
Doctorate Holders: 198 candidates possess a doctorate degree.
Educational Qualifications by Phases
First Phase
Basic to High School: 639 candidates (5th to 12th grade).
Graduate or Higher: 836 candidates.
Literate: 36 candidates.
Illiterate: 26 candidates.
Undisclosed: 4 candidates.
Second Phase
Basic to High School: 533 candidates.
Graduate or Higher: 574 candidates.
Literate: 37 candidates.
Illiterate: 8 candidates.
Undisclosed: 3 candidates.
Third Phase
Basic to High School: 639 candidates.
Graduate or Higher: 591 candidates.
Literate: 56 candidates.
Illiterate: 19 candidates.
Undisclosed: 3 candidates.
Fourth Phase
Basic to High School: 644 candidates.
Graduate or Higher: 944 candidates.
Literate: 30 candidates.
Illiterate: 26 candidates.
Fifth Phase:
Basic to High School: 293 candidates.
Graduate or Higher: 349 candidates.
Literate: 20 candidates.
Illiterate: 5 candidates.
Undisclosed: 2 candidates.
Sixth Phase
Basic to High School: 332 candidates.
Graduate or Higher: 487 candidates.
Diploma Holders: 22 candidates.
Literate: 12 candidates.
Illiterate: 13 candidates.
Seventh Phase
Basic to High School: 402 candidates.
Graduate or Higher: 430 candidates.
Diploma Holders: 20 candidates.
Literate: 26 candidates.
Illiterate: 24 candidates.
Undisclosed: 2 candidates.
Election Timeline
The Lok Sabha elections are being conducted in seven phases, spanning from April 19 to June 1, with vote counting scheduled for June 4. With five phases completed, the sixth and seventh phases are set for May 25 and June 1, respectively.
Broader Context
The educational qualifications of candidates have sparked conversations about the representation and the varied backgrounds of those vying for legislative positions. This diversity reflects the broader Indian electorate, encompassing a wide range of educational experiences.
Additional Insights
The data offers a glimpse into the demographic and educational landscape of the candidates, shedding light on the broader social and economic factors influencing political participation in India. As the elections progress, the outcomes will determine the composition of the next Lok Sabha and the potential impact of these diverse educational backgrounds on governance and policy-making.
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