Educational deprivation refers to the lack of equal opportunities, resources, access, and participation in education experienced by certain sections of society. In the sociology of education, educational deprivation is understood not simply as an individual problem but as a result of social, economic, cultural, and political inequalities. Marginalised groups such as Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, religious minorities, women, persons with disabilities, economically weaker sections, migrant communities, and children from disadvantaged social backgrounds often face multiple barriers to education. One major cause of educational deprivation is poverty. Poor families may find it difficult to meet the direct and indirect costs of education, including books, uniforms, transport, examination fees, and digital devices. Children from such families may also be required to work, care for younger siblings, or contribute to household activities. As a result, they may enter school late, attend irregularly, perform poorly, or drop out altogether. Economic deprivation therefore directly affects educational participation and achievement. Social discrimination is another important factor.