The debate around the caste census has sparked significant discussion across various political and social circles. The Congress party has emphasized that conducting a caste census could reshape the country’s political framework and has even promised to increase reservations for Scheduled Tribes (STs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). On the other hand, the BJP and the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) have dismissed the initiative as a distraction from Congress’s unfulfilled promises and from the pressing issues facing the state. The Hans India gathered opinions from people on this controversial topic.
A Balanced Approach: Caste and Skill Census
Kanaparthy Sudhakar, an Assistant Professor at SRR Government Arts & Science College, Karimnagar, believes that both caste and skill censuses are essential. He states that while a caste census can provide a clearer understanding of socio-economic disparities within different castes, a skill census identifies individuals’ capabilities and growth opportunities, especially in global markets. Combining both approaches, he argues, can promote social justice alongside economic development.
Supporting Data-Driven Governance
MV Gona Reddy, a retired principal from Nalgonda, supports the caste census if its goal is to improve the lives of citizens and the nation. He highlights the importance of collecting data to ensure welfare measures reach all individuals, irrespective of their caste, creed, or ethnicity. According to him, a comprehensive census is critical for the government to make informed decisions regarding resource distribution, policy-making, and planning.
Empowering Through Skills
B Suresh Kumar, a legal professional from Hyderabad, stresses the importance of a skill census, citing the example of Andhra Pradesh’s planned initiative. He believes such a census could help the government identify areas for workforce upskilling, leading to better job opportunities and economic empowerment for vulnerable sections of society.
Combining Social and Economic Goals
Robin, an RTI activist from Hyderabad, argues that both caste and skill censuses play vital roles. While the caste census helps understand the demographic composition of communities, religions, and castes, the skill census evaluates the proportion of skilled individuals within these groups. This combined approach, he says, can enable targeted policymaking and resource allocation to uplift marginalized communities and ensure equitable growth.
A Focus on Skills Over Caste
K Srinivasa Rao, a resident of Palvoncha in Kothagudem, believes Telangana should prioritize skills and competencies over caste-related data. He points to Andhra Pradesh’s ongoing Skill Census 2024, which aims to identify industry-specific skill requirements and assess individuals’ capabilities. According to him, focusing on skills is a more inclusive way to build an economically empowered society.
Conclusion
The discussion around caste and skill censuses reflects a broader debate on how best to achieve social justice and economic development. While some advocate for the caste census to address historical inequalities, others emphasize the importance of skill development to drive economic empowerment. A balanced approach that integrates both perspectives could be the most effective way forward.
