Spatial patterns of literacy differentials in Ajmer District (2011): a tehsil level analysis

The Literacy is a crucial factor in the social, economic, and personal development of individuals. It contributes to better health, productivity, income, and overall quality of life, as well as increased participation in community activities. Education also introduces new ideas for societal development and personal growth. The disparities between urban and rural areas are largely due to the varying rates of change in towns and villages. Literacy, like other innovations, originates in urban areas and spreads to rural regions. This study focuses on the Ajmer region of Rajasthan, which has a population of about 2583052people, and a literacy rate slightly above the state average. The study utilizes data from the 2011 Indian census and analyses literacy patterns and differentials, including male-female and urban-rural differences. The unit of analysis is the tehsil, and the study aims to identify the differential and composite indices of literacy development in the region. In 2011, the literacy rate of the Ajmer region was 69.33 percent. However, significant gaps exist between male and female, as well as urban and rural literacy rates in the region. The study seeks to identify the factors contributing to these disparities and propose strategies for improving literacy rates across the region.