Maharashtra Launches Survey To Assess Backwardness Of Maratha Community

The Maharashtra government has commenced a survey to assess the social, economic, and educational backwardness of the Maratha community. This survey aims to address their demands for reservations under the Other Backward Class (OBC) category.

The Maharashtra government has announced a comprehensive survey to assess the social, economic, and educational backwardness of the Maratha community. The survey, to be conducted by the state Commission for Backward Classes, will commence on January 23 and is expected to cover approximately 2.50 crore families.

Maratha Reservation Demand

The Maratha community has been actively demanding reservations in government jobs and education under the Other Backward Class (OBC) category. This survey aims to provide empirical data to support their claims and facilitate informed decision-making by the government.

Survey Details

The survey will be conducted in three shifts daily to expedite the process. Divisional commissioners, collectors, commissioners of municipal corporations, and other senior officials will oversee the survey's implementation. Renowned institutions like the Gokhale Institute in Pune and IIPS will provide technical assistance in carrying out the survey.

Enumerators and Training

Over 1.25 lakh enumerators, including teachers, gram sevaks, anganwadi workers, and talathis, will be engaged in the survey. Training for these enumerators commenced on Saturday in 36 districts, 27 municipalities, and seven cantonment areas to ensure accurate and efficient data collection.

Chief Minister's Instructions

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde emphasized the importance of the survey and directed officials to inform villagers about the exercise and share details with gram panchayat offices. He stressed the need for punctuality and accuracy in conducting the survey.

Maratha Quota Activist's Protest

The survey announcement comes amidst ongoing protests by Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange. Jarange embarked on a protest march to Mumbai from Jalna with thousands of supporters, demanding the issuance of blanket Kunbi OBC caste certificates to all Marathas. He has also announced plans to launch an indefinite fast for the Maratha quota in Mumbai from January 26.

The Maharashtra government's decision to conduct a survey on the Maratha community's backwardness is a significant step towards addressing their concerns and aspirations. The survey findings will play a crucial role in informing policy decisions and ensuring social justice for the Maratha community.