Caste enumeration to be part of upcoming population census: Cabinet

By | April 30, 2025

Introduction

In a historic decision, the Union Cabinet has cleared the inclusion of caste enumeration in India’s upcoming population census. This move marks a major shift in how the government collects social data. It also aims to support more inclusive and targeted policy-making.

Social justice advocates and several political parties have demanded this change for years. They believe that accurate caste data is crucial for fair welfare distribution and planning.

What Is Caste Enumeration?

Caste enumeration means collecting detailed caste data during a national census. So far, the census has only recorded information about Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). The government hasn’t included Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and other castes since the 1931 British-era census.

The new approach will help the government identify how different caste groups live, work, and access public services.

Key Points from the Cabinet Decision

The Cabinet has given the green light for a full caste-based survey in the next census. Some important features include:

  • Collection of data for all castes, not just SCs or STs.
  • Use of digital and biometric tools to improve accuracy.
  • People will self-report caste identity, and it will be optional.
  • The government will analyze caste-wise data separately for planning and policy purposes.

According to the Home Ministry, this decision will give policymakers better insights. It will also help ensure fairer distribution of public resources.

Political Reactions

Political leaders have responded strongly to the announcement:

  • Parties like JD(U), RJD, Congress, and DMK have praised the decision. They believe it will improve social justice.
  • Many want to update reservation quotas based on new data.
  • Some critics warn that caste data could be misused for political advantage.

Despite concerns, most agree that collecting accurate caste data is a step toward transparent and fair governance.

Why This Move Matters

India has not conducted a full caste census since 1931. After independence, leaders avoided caste data in the census to prevent division. However, demands for OBC representation and better-targeted policies have grown stronger.

In 2011, the government conducted a Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC). But it never released the caste results due to errors and classification issues. This time, the government plans to fix those problems by using modern tools and better survey methods.

How It Could Improve Governance

Experts believe caste enumeration can improve several areas:

  1. Reservation Policies
    Data can help check if current quotas are fair and based on need.
  2. Welfare Targeting
    Government schemes can reach the most disadvantaged communities more accurately.
  3. Education and Employment Planning
    Understanding caste-linked gaps can shape better education and job programs.
  4. Research and Transparency
    Academics and policymakers can use solid data to discuss caste and development openly.

Concerns and Challenges

Though the move has received praise, challenges remain:

  • Ensuring Accuracy
    People may misreport or misunderstand caste names and categories.
  • Protecting Privacy
    Collecting caste data raises concerns about data misuse.
  • Avoiding Tensions
    There’s a risk of stirring up caste rivalries or demands.

The government says it will protect people’s privacy. Officials promise to use the data only for development and planning.

Conclusion

The Cabinet’s approval of caste enumeration marks a major milestone in India’s governance. This move promises a more data-driven approach to social welfare. By collecting accurate caste information, the government hopes to close gaps and build a more inclusive society.

If handled carefully, this step could reshape welfare delivery and bring long-awaited justice to underrepresented groups.