In a landmark decision, the Indian Cabinet has approved the inclusion of caste data in the forthcoming national census, marking the first comprehensive caste enumeration since 1931.

This move aims to enhance the accuracy of social welfare programs and address longstanding demands for updated demographic data.

Key Points

• The Union Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs has sanctioned the inclusion of a caste census in the forthcoming national population census, marking the first comprehensive caste enumeration since 1931.
• The last full national caste enumeration was conducted in 1931 during British India.
• Bihar was the first state to conduct a caste census in 2023, setting a precedent for others.
• This decision reflects the government's commitment to transparency and aims to provide accurate data for the formulation of targeted social policies.