Maternal autonomy, caste system, and children's school enrollment in India

Abstract Objective This study examined the relationship between maternal autonomy and children's school enrollment in India and assessed how caste‐based social stratification moderates this association. Background Maternal autonomy, encompassing financial control, decision‐making power, and mobility are key determinants of child development. In India, gender and caste‐based inequalities constrain women's autonomy, potentially limiting its benefits for children's education. Method Using data from 340,006 mother–child pairs in the National Family Health Survey (NFHS‐5), maternal autonomy was modeled as a latent construct from nine indicators across three domains. Probit regression models estimated its association with school enrollment, with interaction terms assessing caste‐based moderation. Results Maternal autonomy positively influences school enrollment, with financial autonomy showing the strongest effect. However, the benefits are significantly lower for children from marginalized caste groups (Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes). No gender‐based variation was observed. Conclusion Maternal autonomy enhances school enrollment, but its effectiveness is moderated by caste‐based disparities. Implications Policies should integrate gender empowerment with caste‐sensitive reforms to ensure equitable access to resources, mobility, and decision‐making opportunities for disadvantaged women.