This book comprehensively analyzes the impact of various developmental schemes and plans on the scheduled castes in the Indian state of Maharashtra, which is the most disadvantaged and underprivileged section of Indian society. The book emphasizes their growth and geographical dissemination, landholdings, occupational structure, poverty, housing conditions, literacy and educational acquisitions, and their overall levels of development. To look into the hidden ground realities, the book also includes a micro-level detailed study of the scheduled castes' plight in 15 villages in comparison to the privileged non-scheduled castes/scheduled tribes population. As an empirical study in social geography, it will prove useful to scholars, teachers, politicians, administrators, social workers, professional planners, and all those who are concerned with the development of such underprivileged sections of society.