Athawale to Request Odisha CM for 27% OBC Reservation in Higher Studies

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale announced plans to write to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, urging him to implement a 27% reservation for OBC students in higher education. Athawale, who is the Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, noted that many states in India already provide this reservation.

Athawale, also the president of the Republican Party of India (RPI), stressed the importance of a caste-based census to understand the population distribution of various communities. "I have raised the call for a caste-based census in Parliament as well. We are awaiting the government's response," he added.

Concerns Over Atrocities Against SC/ST

The Union Minister expressed concern over the increasing number of atrocities against Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) in Odisha. He cited statistics showing 3,003 reported cases in 2021, 3,704 in 2022, and 3,358 so far in 2023. "During my visit, I will discuss this issue with the Odisha Governor and Chief Minister," he said.

Athawale emphasised that addressing these atrocities requires more than just enforcing laws. It necessitates cooperation from all stakeholders, including the state government, district administrations, NGOs, and political parties.

Reviewing Welfare Schemes

Currently on a two-day official visit to Odisha, Athawale spent his first day reviewing the implementation of various welfare schemes. These include the Special Component Plan for Scheduled Castes, scholarships for SC/OBC students, the Atrocities Act for SC/ST, incentives for inter-caste married couples, hostels for SC/ST students, old age homes and pensions, and programs for the empowerment of persons with disabilities (PwDs).

"If OBC students in Odisha are not receiving this benefit, I will formally request the Chief Minister to address this issue," Athawale stated. He highlighted that several states across India already grant 27% reservation to OBC students.

Athawale's visit aims to ensure that welfare schemes are effectively reaching their intended beneficiaries. His focus includes reviewing scholarships for SC/OBC students and incentives for inter-caste married couples.

The Union Minister's agenda also includes discussions on improving hostels for SC/ST students and enhancing old age homes and pensions. Programs aimed at empowering persons with disabilities (PwDs) are also under review during his visit.

Athawale's efforts underscore his commitment to social justice and empowerment. His call for a caste-based census aims to provide accurate data on community populations to better address their needs.

The Union Minister's engagement with Odisha's leadership highlights his proactive approach to addressing social issues. His focus on cooperation among various stakeholders aims to create a more inclusive society.

Athawale's visit reflects his dedication to ensuring that welfare schemes are implemented effectively. His discussions with state leaders aim to address pressing social issues and improve the lives of marginalised communities.

The Union Minister's emphasis on cooperation among stakeholders highlights the need for a collective effort to combat atrocities against SC/ST communities. His proactive approach aims to foster a more inclusive and just society.

Athawale's call for a caste-based census is part of his broader efforts to ensure equitable distribution of resources. Accurate data on community populations is essential for effective policy-making and resource allocation.

His visit underscores the importance of reviewing and improving welfare schemes to ensure they reach those in need. By engaging with state leaders and stakeholders, Athawale aims to enhance social justice and empowerment initiatives.

The Union Minister's focus on addressing atrocities against SC/ST communities highlights the urgent need for collective action. Cooperation among government bodies, NGOs, and political parties is crucial to creating a safer environment for marginalised groups.

Athawale's proactive stance on social justice issues reflects his commitment to creating an inclusive society. His efforts aim to ensure that welfare schemes are effectively implemented and reach their intended beneficiaries.

The Union Minister's engagement with Odisha's leadership demonstrates his dedication to addressing social issues at both state and national levels. His focus on cooperation among stakeholders aims to foster a more inclusive society.

Athawale's visit highlights his commitment to ensuring that welfare schemes are implemented effectively. His discussions with state leaders aim to address pressing social issues and improve the lives of marginalised communities.

His call for a caste-based census underscores the importance of accurate data in policy-making. Understanding community populations is essential for equitable resource distribution and effective social justice initiatives.

By reviewing welfare schemes and engaging with state leaders, Athawale aims to enhance social justice efforts. His proactive approach seeks to create a more inclusive society where marginalised communities receive the support they need.

Athawale's emphasis on cooperation among stakeholders highlights the need for collective action in addressing social issues. His efforts aim to foster a safer environment for SC/ST communities through effective implementation of laws and policies.

The Union Minister's visit underscores his dedication to ensuring that welfare schemes reach their intended beneficiaries. By engaging with state leaders and stakeholders, Athawale aims to enhance social justice initiatives and improve the lives of marginalised groups.