Summary
India will count every caste in its 2027 national census for the first time in nearly a century, following pressure from opposition parties and several states. Some believe this could help better target government benefits and improve affirmative action policies. However, critics argue it may reinforce the caste system and politicize social divisions.
Key Facts
- India's 2027 national census will include a complete count of all castes, which hasn't been done since before 1931.
- The decision follows demands from opposition parties and some states that have already conducted their own caste surveys.
- A 2011 survey, not officially released, recorded 4.6 million caste names in India.
- Advocates say counting castes might make government aid more precise by focusing benefits where they are needed most.
- Critics, like scholar Anand Teltumbde, warn that counting castes could solidify caste discrimination and be used politically.
- Caste reservations in government jobs and education were initially for the most oppressed groups but have expanded due to demand from other groups.
- Nearly 800 million people in India currently rely on free food rations.
- Some scholars argue the caste census may entrench inequality instead of exposing it.
