Telangana Launches Groundbreaking Caste-Based Survey, Covering Over 1.17 Crore Households
Telangana has officially launched its first-ever caste-based survey, marking a significant milestone for the state. This landmark initiative, conducted by over 80,000 enumerators, aims to survey more than 1.17 crore households across all 33 districts. This will be the state’s first caste-based census since 1931 and is viewed as a crucial step in fulfilling long-standing demands tied to the Telangana Movement and its vision of inclusive development.
A Landmark Step for Telangana’s Future
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has hailed the commencement of the caste survey, calling it a “historic and revolutionary moment” for the state. Over the course of three weeks, enumerators will carry out door-to-door data collection, which is expected to have far-reaching impacts on resource distribution and community development. Ramesh pointed out that the survey not only represents a key moment for Telangana but also plays a significant role in laying the groundwork for a nationwide caste census. He emphasized that the results of this survey will provide a foundation for addressing community-specific needs in Telangana and could eventually inform national policy.
The survey is part of a larger vision promoted by the INDIA coalition, which has vowed to support the creation of a national caste census if it forms the next government. Ramesh also highlighted that this initiative aligns with Congress’ broader commitment to removing the Supreme Court’s 50% ceiling on caste-based reservations, thus ensuring more equitable opportunities for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) across the country.
Rahul Gandhi’s Endorsement of the Survey
Rahul Gandhi, a strong proponent of a national caste census, has expressed his unwavering support for Telangana’s caste-based survey. Gandhi attended a consultation meeting in the state on November 5, where he underscored the importance of a caste census in ensuring equitable development across communities. He reiterated Congress’ promise to prioritize a comprehensive national caste census should the party take power in the upcoming elections. Gandhi’s backing reinforces the significance of this move for both state and national governance.
The Implementation and Impact of the Caste Survey
The caste-based survey in Telangana is set to continue until November 30, fulfilling a key election promise made by the Congress government. Telangana Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, responsible for overseeing the survey, emphasized the importance of this initiative for understanding the state’s diverse developmental needs.
“This caste survey, which will run from November 6 to November 30, is a direct fulfillment of our promise made during the elections,” said Prabhakar. “Through this extensive survey, we aim to gather vital socio-economic data that will provide insights into the needs of different communities and help shape policies for inclusive growth.”
The survey will not only collect demographic and economic data but will also help create a more accurate picture of the state’s population, allowing policymakers to better address disparities and ensure targeted benefits for marginalized communities. As Telangana seeks to develop in a way that is inclusive of all its citizens, the caste-based survey stands as a crucial step in ensuring that no community is left behind.
