NEW DELHI: In a landmark decision, India will conduct its first official caste-based census since 1931, a move that could reshape the country’s socio-political landscape and influence its affirmative action policies for years to come.
The government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the inclusion of caste data in the upcoming nationwide census—originally scheduled for 2021 but delayed indefinitely. The decision was announced following a Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs meeting.
“This decision reflects the government’s commitment to social equity and national progress,” government spokesperson Ashwini Vaishnaw stated.
Home Minister Amit Shah hailed the move as “historic,” emphasizing that it will provide much-needed representation and data for economically and socially backward communities.
Caste continues to play a dominant role in India’s social and political dynamics. More than two-thirds of the population, estimated at 1.4 billion, belong to historically disadvantaged castes. While the caste system has been officially dismantled, its influence remains deeply embedded in Indian society.
Although a caste survey was carried out in 2011, its findings were never officially released due to reported inaccuracies. Since independence in 1947, successive governments have avoided a full caste enumeration, citing potential risks of social unrest and administrative challenges.
The ruling BJP, which had previously opposed caste-based counting, now says the move will promote inclusivity and support data-driven policymaking for marginalized groups.
No official date has been confirmed for the upcoming census, but the inclusion of caste data marks a significant shift in India’s approach to demographic representation and social justice.
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