Caste Census in India To Start From October 1, 2026: Reports; Know What Is The Need For Caste Census In India

The Government of India is likely to conduct the national caste census from October 1, 2026 onwards, said reports. It has been learned that the caste census will be conducted in two phases. The first phase will cover the hilly regions of Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh. The second phase will extend to other states starting March 1, 2027.

Conducting a caste census involves gathering data on individuals' caste identities during a national census. In India, where caste influences social and political dynamics significantly, this data can reveal demographic distributions and socio-economic conditions. Such insights are crucial for shaping policies related to affirmative action and social justice.

Historical Context and Significance of Caste Census in India

The last comprehensive caste census in India was conducted in 1931 under British rule. This exercise provided critical insights into the societal composition at that time. Notably, it estimated that Other Backward Classes (OBCs) constituted 52% of India's population then. This data later informed the Mandal Commission's recommendations for OBC reservations.

Over the years, increasing social inequalities have intensified calls for another caste census. Accurate caste data can improve reservation policies in education and employment by identifying marginalized groups more precisely. It ensures these groups receive appropriate support through targeted welfare programs.

What is the Need for Caste Census

Poonam Muttreja from the Population Foundation of India highlights that a caste census can reveal disparities in education, healthcare, nutrition, and social security. This information aids in crafting inclusive policies that address these gaps effectively. Reliable data also helps political parties assess representation gaps among communities to refine electoral strategies.

States like Bihar and Telangana have already conducted their own surveys, showcasing the practical benefits of such data collection. These state-level efforts have fueled demands for a nationwide exercise to address socio-economic disparities linked to caste.

Implementation Details

The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs approved this decision on April 30, 2025. Information Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured that the process would be transparent. The upcoming exercise marks nearly 94 years since the last nationwide caste enumeration.

Caste continues to influence access to opportunities and resources in India. Without concrete data from a comprehensive census, designing effective policies remains challenging. A national effort is essential for addressing these longstanding issues effectively.