Caste Census

Current Context: Recently, the Union Cabinet approved the inclusion of caste enumeration in the upcoming national population census, marking the first comprehensive caste data collection since 1931.

About the Decision:

• Cabinet Approval: The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs approved the inclusion of caste enumeration in the 2025 Census to gather detailed caste data.
• Judicial Requirement: The Supreme Court, in the Indra Sawhney case (1992), emphasized that caste data must be reviewed periodically to assess “backwardness” of groups and ensure equitable distribution of reservation benefits.
• Social Justice: Caste census data will help in devising a ‘quota-within-quota’ system to ensure more equitable distribution of reservation benefits.
• Policy Impact: The data will enable more evidence-based policy making to cater to the needs of underprivileged and marginalized communities.
• Political Implications: The decision is expected to influence electoral strategies, particularly in caste-sensitive states such as Bihar and Karnataka

About the Census:

• Census is a Union subject under Article 246, Entry 69 of the Constitution, with the Census Act of 1948 providing a framework for conducting population censuses.
• Significance of Data: Accurate caste data will provide a basis for informed policy decisions, ensuring that marginalized groups receive adequate support and representation.

History of Caste Enumeration:

• 1881-1931: British census enumerated caste for administrative purposes.
• 1951: Post-independence, general caste enumeration was discontinued.
• 1961: States authorized to survey OBCs.
• 2011: Socio-Economic Caste Census conducted for socio-economic data.