A key step by Bihar to promote better social justice
Source: The Hindu
For Prelims: General Studies II: Census, Caste Census
For Mains: General Studies II: benefits of Caste Census or Challenges of Caste Census
Highlights of the Article
Welfare Services Related vs Caste Census
Reservations
Caste Census
Caste Discrimination
Context
Certain dates acquire greater significance by a stroke of history, and October 2, 2023 is one such date — a day when the Bihar government released the data for a caste-based survey, known as the Bihar Jaati Adharit Ganana. Let us remember not to forget
UPSC EXAM NOTES ANALYSIS:
1. Census
A census is a systematic and comprehensive data collection process that aims to gather information about a population, including its demographic, social, economic, and other relevant characteristics.
Censuses are conducted at regular intervals, typically every ten years, by governments or relevant authorities in various countries.
The primary purpose of a census is to obtain a complete and accurate count of the population and to collect data that can be used for various purposes
including:
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Demographic Information: Censuses collect data on the size, age, sex, and distribution of a population. This information is critical for understanding population trends and for making policy decisions related to healthcare, education, and social services.
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Economic Data: Censuses gather information on employment, income, occupation, and other economic indicators. This data is valuable for economic planning and policymaking.
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Social Characteristics: Data on education, housing, marital status, and household composition can be collected to assess social conditions and plan for social services and infrastructure development.
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Geographic Distribution: Censuses provide information on the spatial distribution of the population, which is essential for urban and regional planning, as well as for the allocation of resources.
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Representation and Political Boundaries: Census data is used to determine electoral boundaries and representation in legislative bodies. It ensures that political representation accurately reflects changes in the population.
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Resource Allocation: Governments and organizations use census data to allocate resources for various programs, such as healthcare, education, and social welfare, based on the needs and demographics of different regions.
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Research and Analysis: Census data serves as a valuable resource for researchers, social scientists, and policymakers to conduct studies, analyze trends, and make informed decisions.
2. Caste Census
A caste census, often referred to as a caste-based enumeration, is a specific type of census that aims to collect data on the social and demographic composition of a population based on caste or social categories.
Caste is a system of social stratification that has historically been prevalent in India, as well as in some other countries.
The caste system in India divides society into various hierarchical groups, known as castes, each with its own social and economic status.
3. Accuracy of Caste Census
- The primary purpose of a caste census is to gather information on the distribution of different castes or social groups within the population. This data can have several objectives and applications, including:
- With accurate caste-based data, the government can develop more effective and targeted
welfare programmes. - These programmes can be tailored to the specific needs of different
caste groups, ensuring that the benefits of government schemes reach the most vulnerable
sections of society - Regular caste-based census data can help track the progress of different
caste groups over time - This allows for the evaluation of the effectiveness of policies and programmes aimed at social justice and affirmative action.
- It will also enable the government to make necessary adjustments to policies when needed
- Caste-based data can help ensure fair representation of marginalised communities in government, education, and employment
- Reservations and affirmative action policies are often based on caste, and accurate data is crucial to determine the appropriate level of representation required
- A caste-based census promotes transparency and accountability in government
efforts to promote social justice. It allows citizens to hold the government accountable for
the equitable distribution of resources and opportunities
4. Bihar Caste Census
- The Bihar Caste Census, officially known as the Jaati Aadharit Ganana, was conducted by the Government of Bihar in 2023.
- It was the first caste census in India since 1931. The census was conducted in two phases: house listing and caste and economic enumeration. The house listing phase was conducted from January to March 2023, and the caste and economic enumeration phase was conducted from April to May 2023.
- The census counted 214 castes, of which 113 were listed as Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and 12 were listed as Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs). The census also counted 22 Scheduled Castes and 32 Scheduled Tribes.
- The census data showed that OBCs and EBCs together constitute 63% of the population of Bihar.
- The Scheduled Castes make up 19.7% of the population, and the Scheduled Tribes make up 1.7% of the population. The remaining 15.6% of the population is made up of forward castes and other religious communities.
- The Bihar Caste Census is a significant development, as it provides comprehensive data on the caste composition of the state.
- This data can be used to inform policy decisions and to ensure that all castes are represented in government and other institutions.
5.A Subject of Debate
However, it is important to note that the idea of conducting a caste-based census in India
has been a subject of debate and controversy
has been a subject of debate and controversy
Some argue that it could perpetuate and deepen caste divisions, while others believe that it is necessary to address historical injustices and promote social justice
The decision to conduct such a census involves careful consideration of these arguments and a balanced approach to address the complex issue of caste-based disparities in India
Caste discrimination in India is a deeply entrenched social issue that has persisted for centuries
Several factors highlight the need for committed government intervention to address this problem
The following are Six Key Takeaways from this debate:
- First, historical injustice. Caste discrimination has its roots in centuries of historical oppression and marginalisation. It has resulted in the social, economic, and educational backwardness of certain caste groups. Government intervention is necessary to rectify these historical injustices.
- Second, constitutional mandate. The Indian Constitution recognises the existence of caste-based discrimination and inequality and provides for affirmative action measures (such as reservations in education, employment, and politics) to uplift historically disadvantaged groups. The government has a constitutional obligation to implement and enforce these provision
- Third, human rights. Discrimination based on caste is a violation of human rights. The government has a responsibility to protect the human rights of all its citizens, which includes the right to equality, dignity, and non-discrimination. Committed government intervention is necessary to ensure that these rights are upheld.
- Fourth, social cohesion. Caste discrimination perpetuates social divisions and hinders social cohesion. It creates a sense of inequality and injustice among marginalised groups and can lead to social unrest. Government intervention is essential to promote social harmony and unity
- Fifth, economic development. Caste discrimination often leads to economic disparities, with certain caste groups facing limited access to education and employment opportunities. Government intervention through affirmative action policies can help bridge these gaps and promote economic development for all
- Sixth, education. Discrimination can hinder access to quality education for marginalised caste groups. Government intervention is necessary to ensure that educational opportunities are accessible to all, irrespective of caste, and that discrimination within educational institutions is eliminated
6. Caste Census vs Employment
Discrimination in employment can limit job opportunities for certain caste groups. Government intervention is required to enforce anti-discrimination laws and promote fair employment practices, including affirmative action in the public sector.
Caste Census through the Prism of Employment:
- Political representation- Dalits and other marginalised caste groups have historically been under-represented in political positions. Government intervention is needed to promote their political participation and representation, which is crucial for addressing their concern
- Awareness and sensitisation-The government can play a significant role in creating
awareness about the harms of caste discrimination and promoting social sensitivity and
inclusivity through educational programmes and campaigns. - Legal framework- Government intervention is crucial to strengthening and
enforcing anti-discrimination laws and policies aimed at eradicating caste discrimination.
Without a committed government effort, these laws may remain ineffective.
7. Conclusion
Caste discrimination is a deeply ingrained problem in India that requires
sustained and committed government intervention to address. Such intervention is not
only essential to rectify historical injustices but also to uphold the principles of equality,
justice, and human rights for all citizens, regardless of their caste or social background
sustained and committed government intervention to address. Such intervention is not
only essential to rectify historical injustices but also to uphold the principles of equality,
justice, and human rights for all citizens, regardless of their caste or social background
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Practice Mains Questions
1.Discuss the significance of conducting a national census in a country like India. How does census data aid in governance and policy formulation?
2.Examine the historical context and objectives of conducting a caste-based enumeration in India. What are the potential implications and challenges associated with the collection of caste-based data?
3.Analyze the role of caste-based census data in the implementation and monitoring of reservation policies in India. How does it help in ensuring social justice and representation of marginalized communities?
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