Overview

• The Union Cabinet's decision marks the first nationwide caste enumeration since 1931, with preparations now underway for the next census.
• Experts emphasize the critical need to compile a comprehensive and accurate list of castes to avoid errors like those in the 2011 Socio-Economic and Caste Census, which reported inflated data due to methodological flaws.
• Plans include digitized enumeration with a caste code directory and pre-testing to ensure accuracy and streamline the process.
• The move is seen as a strategic political effort by the BJP to regain support among OBC and Dalit voters ahead of key elections in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
• Challenges include addressing the dynamic nature of caste identities, regional variations, and ensuring public consultation to finalize classifications.