Breaking Barriers: Marginality and Struglle of the Minority Students in the Medical Profession in India

The Muslim community locally addressed as Miya community, primarily from marginalized backgrounds with limited access to social capital, faces considerable challenges in gaining admission to medical collges in India. Despite these barriers, a growing number of Miya students have managed to break through, securing spots in medical colleges in the state of Assam in India. . This paper explores the factors that contribute to their struggle and strategy in successful admission with a focus on how their unique experiences, community support structures, and personal determination enable them to break the glass ceiling.

Drawing on social network theory, this study examines the role of familial, religious, and local networks in overcoming the marginalization and limited access to resources typically associated with the Miya community. While these students lack the extensive elite social networks that facilitate access to higher education, they often rely on close-knit community ties, informal mentorship, and resilience to overcome obstacles. This research further explores the role of affirmative action policies and scholarship programs that, although limited, provide critical opportunities for Miya students. The paper critically reflects on the intersection of social networks, identity, and access to higher education, emphasizing how the lack of mainstream networks can shape educational trajectories. Finally, the study highlights the importance of inclusive policies and community-based support systems in creating pathways for under-represented groups in the medical profession, offering insights into how social network dynamics can influence health outcomes and professional success.