In a landmark decision, the Indian government has approved the inclusion of caste data in the upcoming national census, marking the first comprehensive caste enumeration since 1931. This move aims to provide updated insights into the socio-economic status of various caste groups, potentially reshaping affirmative action policies and addressing longstanding inequalities. Deccan Herald+2AP News+2Reuters+2

Historically, caste data collection was a regular feature during British rule from 1881 to 1931. Post-independence, however, the practice was discontinued, except for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), to avoid reinforcing social divisions. The last attempt at national-level caste data collection occurred in 2011 through the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC), which faced challenges in data accuracy and utilization.

The decision to reinstate caste enumeration comes amid growing political and social demands for updated data to inform policies related to affirmative action and social justice. States like Bihar and Karnataka have already conducted their own caste surveys, revealing a higher number of backward castes and prompting calls to raise quotas. AP News

Proponents argue that comprehensive caste data is essential for effectively implementing social justice programs and ensuring equitable resource distribution. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has emphasized that the caste census is “a matter of ensuring justice and not politics,” advocating for its role in the emancipation of marginalized communities. The Statesman+2AP News+2Reuters+2The Hindu

However, the move is not without controversy. Critics express concerns that caste enumeration may deepen social divisions and lead to increased demands for reservations, currently capped at 50% overall, with 27% for Other Backward Classes (OBCs). AP News

Despite these concerns, the government’s approval of the caste census is seen as a pivotal step toward transparency and inclusivity. By providing a clearer picture of the country’s social fabric, policymakers aim to craft more targeted and effective interventions to uplift historically disadvantaged groups.Business Finance News India

As India prepares for this significant data collection exercise, the caste census is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s approach to social equity and inclusive development.The Hindu+1Deccan Herald+1