Caste Census: In a historic policy shift, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on April 30, 2025, that caste enumeration will be included in the upcoming national census. This decision marks the first official caste census in India since 1931 and is being hailed as a transformative moment in the country’s efforts to address caste-based socio-economic disparities.
What is a Caste Census?
A caste census refers to the systematic collection of demographic data on various castes and sub-castes in the country, along with associated socio-economic indicators such as education, income, occupation, housing conditions, and access to welfare schemes. While the regular decennial census conducted since 1951 has collected data only on Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), a caste census goes further to include Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and all other caste groups, including those in the general category.
Last Caste Census in 1931
The last such exercise was conducted by the British in 1931, identifying 4,147 castes in India and estimating the OBC population at around 52% of the total. Since independence, caste enumeration beyond SCs and STs was discontinued due to concerns about social division and administrative complexity. However, growing demands for evidence-based policy and representation have reignited the debate.
Evidence-Based Policy Making
Accurate data on caste demographics is essential to design targeted policies. Welfare schemes, affirmative action, and development programs can be better aligned with ground realities when backed by precise socio-economic data.
Understanding Socio-Economic Disparities
India’s caste system continues to influence access to education, employment, and economic opportunity. A caste census would provide granular insight into how different castes fare in terms of income, literacy, health, and employment—highlighting disparities that often remain hidden in aggregate statistics.
Revisiting Quotas and Reservations
Currently, reservations for OBCs, SCs, and STs are based on outdated estimates. A comprehensive caste census could serve as a foundation to revise reservation policies to reflect actual population proportions and socio-economic status, ensuring fairer representation.
Transparency and Accountability
By releasing caste data, the government can ensure transparency in how public resources are allocated. It may also build public confidence in state welfare schemes and help in identifying leakages or inefficiencies in implementation.
Strengthening Social Justice
Inclusion of caste in the census is a step toward acknowledging historical injustices and the persistence of caste-based discrimination. This recognition is critical to formulating effective strategies for social equity and inclusive growth.
Positive Takeaway
The inclusion of caste in the national census is a landmark step toward reshaping India’s approach to social justice and policy planning. If executed effectively, it has the potential to revolutionize the understanding of India’s complex social fabric, enabling more inclusive and data-driven governance. While challenges exist, the benefits of having accurate and comprehensive data far outweigh the risks—making this decision not just historic, but necessary for India’s democratic and developmental journey.
