Cabinet says yes to caste count in the next Census

Ashwini Vaishnaw says inclusion of caste enumeration prompted by need for transparency

- Subhash Narayan & Vijay C. Roy

In a major political decision, the Centre on Wednesday approved the inclusion of caste enumeration in the forthcoming Census. The decision was taken by the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs, amid a growing demand for such a census.

Union information and broadcasting minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the move was prompted by the need for transparency and consistency, noting that previous caste-related surveys had been conducted in an ad-hoc and often politically motivated manner.

"Such surveys have created doubts in society. Considering all these facts, and to ensure that our social fabric is not disturbed by politics, caste enumeration should be transparently included in the Census instead of surveys. This will strengthen the social and economic structure of our society while the nation continues to progress," he said.

Government officials said the process of enumeration is likely to begin this year.