(a)The social group which are most vulnerable to poverty in India are ST(scheduled caste) and SC(scheduled tribes).(b)The economic groups which are most vulnerable to poverty in India are urban casual workers and rural agricultural labourers.

Introduction:
India is a diverse nation with a complex social and economic landscape. The country faces significant challenges in combating poverty and ensuring equitable development. Several social and economic groups are particularly vulnerable to poverty in India due to various factors such as caste, gender, religion, and geographic location.

Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes:
- Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) are among the most vulnerable groups in India.
- They have historically faced social discrimination and exclusion, leading to limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
- The prevalence of poverty is higher among SCs and STs compared to other groups.
- Discrimination, social stigmatization, and limited access to resources contribute to their vulnerability.

Rural and Agricultural Communities:
- Rural communities, especially those engaged in agriculture, are highly vulnerable to poverty.
- Dependence on erratic monsoons, lack of irrigation facilities, and low productivity contribute to agricultural distress.
- Limited access to credit, technology, and markets further exacerbate poverty in rural areas.
- Lack of alternative livelihood opportunities forces many to live in extreme poverty.

Women:
- Women in India face multiple layers of vulnerability due to gender discrimination and unequal access to resources and opportunities.
- Gender wage gaps, limited access to education, and patriarchal norms restrict their economic empowerment.
- Women from marginalized communities, such as Dalit and tribal women, face even greater discrimination and poverty.

Urban Slum Dwellers:
- Urban slum dwellers, including migrant workers, are a highly vulnerable group.
- Lack of access to basic amenities, healthcare, education, and secure housing contribute to their poverty.
- Informal employment with low wages, exploitation, and job insecurity further perpetuate their vulnerability.

Religious Minorities:
- Religious minorities, particularly Muslims, face higher poverty rates compared to the majority Hindu population.
- Discrimination, limited access to education, and exclusion from mainstream economic opportunities contribute to their vulnerability.

Conclusion:
Addressing poverty in India requires a comprehensive approach that recognizes and targets the specific vulnerabilities of different social and economic groups. Policies and interventions should focus on improving access to education, healthcare, livelihood opportunities, and social protection for these vulnerable groups. Additionally, efforts should be made to address underlying social inequalities and discrimination to ensure inclusive and sustainable development for all.