The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the inclusion of caste-based enumeration in the upcoming national census, a landmark move welcomed by leaders across the political spectrum, including Telangana Congress veteran V Hanumantha Rao.
Key Developments:
- Cabinet Decision:
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that caste enumeration will be integrated into the next national census, calling it a step that aligns with the government’s goal of ensuring holistic development and inclusivity. - V Hanumantha Rao Reacts:
The senior Congress leader claimed credit for raising the issue for over a decade, asserting: “I fought for 11 years for caste census and a separate ministry for the common man. Now even Narendra Modi has understood that the country will not run in the name of Ram; the poor must be served.” - Congress & Rahul Gandhi’s Support:
Rao emphasized that Rahul Gandhi had committed to caste census during his Bharat Jodo Yatra, adding legitimacy to Congress’s push for social justice and equitable representation.
Telangana’s Caste Survey Model:
- Statewide Exercise:
Telangana launched its own caste survey in November 2024, covering 1.1 crore households. - Findings (as per submitted report on February 2, 2025):
- Backward Classes (BCs): 46.2%
- Scheduled Castes (SCs): 17.4%
- Scheduled Tribes (STs): 10.4%
- Muslims: 12.5%
- Other Open Categories: 13.3%
- Policy Response:
CM Revanth Reddy’s government allocated ₹150 crore for the survey and provided 42% reservation to OBCs based on findings. “How much share you have, that much participation you must have,” said Rao, backing the principle of proportional representation.
This move marks a shift in the national policy landscape, especially ahead of the next Lok Sabha elections, potentially redefining social welfare distribution and political strategies nationwide.