Caste, gender, and intersectionality in stream choice: Evidence from higher secondary education in India

Abstract

We investigate how social identity, namely gender and caste, affects stream choice at the higher secondary level of schooling in India. The choice of science stream at this level is a crucial determinant of subsequent science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and labor market outcomes. Using nationally representative data spanning a decade, we show that females and individuals from historically disadvantaged castes are significantly less likely to study science. We analyze the role of various socio-economic and schooling-related factors in explaining these gaps. We also highlight the interplay between caste and gender using an intersectionality framework.