Daily Current Affairs : 5-October-2023
In a recent development, the Bihar government conducted a comprehensive survey, the ‘Bihar Caste-based Survey 2022,’ shedding light on the intricate social fabric of the state. This survey, carried out meticulously over two phases and involving 2.64 lakh enumerators documenting 29 million households, has revealed crucial insights about the state’s population dynamics.
Understanding the Demographic Landscape
Extensive Majority of Backward Classes
The survey disclosed that nearly 63% of Bihar’s 13-crore population comprises Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). This staggering number positions them as the largest caste group in the state.
Segmented Survey Approach
To analyze the socio-economic profiles, the survey meticulously categorized 214 castes into 17 segments. This segmentation allowed for a detailed examination of various caste groups, providing a nuanced understanding of Bihar’s diverse populace.
Demographic Breakdown
EBCs: The Largest Demographic Chunk
EBCs, constituting 112 castes, emerged as the most substantial segment, representing 36.01% of the state’s population. Following closely, OBCs, consisting of 29 castes, accounted for 27.12% of the population. The Yadavs, a dominant caste within OBCs, held a 14.26% share. Scheduled Castes represented 19.65%, while the unreserved general population stood at 15.52%.
Implications for Governance and Politics
Increase in Reservation Quota
One immediate implication of this survey is the necessity to adjust reservation quotas in alignment with the revealed population proportions. This adjustment aims to ensure equitable representation and opportunities for all segments of society.
Removing the Ceiling Cap
The survey findings may catalyze political demands to eliminate the 50% ceiling on reservations mandated by the Supreme Court. This move could potentially pave the way for increased social inclusivity and representation in various sectors.
Impact on Political Landscape
Experts speculate that this caste-based survey might influence the political scenario, potentially weakening Hindutva forces. Understanding the true demographic landscape could lead to more nuanced, inclusive policies, challenging existing political ideologies.
Future Welfare Measures
Need for Comprehensive Welfare Initiatives
With 85% of Bihar’s population belonging to the OBCs, EBCs, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes categories, the survey underscores the urgency of implementing targeted welfare schemes. These initiatives should address the unique challenges faced by these marginalized communities, focusing on education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.
Pending Socio-economic Profile Release
It’s important to note that the government is yet to release the socio-economic profiles of the surveyed population. This data, when available, will serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, enabling them to tailor welfare programs precisely to the needs of Bihar’s diverse populace.
Important Points:
- Demographic Landscape:
- 63% of Bihar’s 13-crore population consists of Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs), making them the largest caste group.
- Survey segmented 214 castes into 17 categories for a detailed analysis of the population.
- Demographic Breakdown:
- EBCs (112 castes) constitute 36.01% of the population, making them the largest segment.
- OBCs (29 castes) represent 27.12% of the population, with Yadavs being a dominant caste at 14.26%.
- Scheduled Castes account for 19.65%, and the unreserved general population is at 15.52%.
- Implications for Governance and Politics:
- The survey necessitates adjusting reservation quotas to ensure equitable opportunities for all segments.
- There’s a potential demand to remove the 50% ceiling on reservations, fostering increased social inclusivity.
- The survey might influence the political landscape, challenging existing ideologies and promoting inclusive policies.
- Future Welfare Measures:
- Urgency for comprehensive welfare initiatives, especially for OBCs, EBCs, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes, constituting 85% of the population.
- Targeted programs focusing on education, healthcare, and economic empowerment are essential for marginalized communities.
- Pending Socio-economic Profile Release:
- The government is yet to release the socio-economic profiles of the surveyed population, crucial for policy formulation and implementation.
Why In News
Recently, the Bihar government published the ‘Bihar Caste-based Survey 2022’, shedding light on the intricate social fabric of the state. This comprehensive survey provides valuable insights into the demographics and caste dynamics, serving as a crucial resource for policymakers and researchers alike. The findings from this survey are expected to play a significant role in shaping inclusive policies and promoting social harmony in Bihar.
MCQs about Bihar Caste-based Survey 2022
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What was the main objective of the Bihar Caste-based Survey 2022?
A. To identify the dominant caste in Bihar.
B. To understand the social fabric and demographics of the state.
C. To analyze the economic growth of Bihar’s population.
D. To determine the literacy rate in different caste groups.
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Which of the following caste groups constitutes the largest segment of Bihar’s population according to the survey?
A. Scheduled Castes
B. Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs)
C. Other Backward Classes (OBCs)
D. General Unreserved Population
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What is the potential implication of the survey findings on reservation policies in Bihar?
A. No change in reservation quotas.
B. Reduction in reservation percentages.
C. Adjustment of reservation quotas according to the population proportions.
D. Elimination of reservation system.
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How might the Bihar Caste-based Survey 2022 influence the political landscape?
A. Strengthening of existing political ideologies.
B. No impact on politics.
C. Challenging existing political ideologies and promoting inclusive policies.
D. Increasing polarization among different caste groups.
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