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The state of Maharashtra is making a significant push to broaden access to opportunities for the Other Backward Classes (OBC) community by proposing a substantial increase in the non-creamy layer income cap. The Maharashtra cabinet has decided to send a recommendation to the central government advocating for the increase of the income ceiling for OBCs from the current Rs 8 lakh per annum to Rs 15 lakh per annum. This move reflects the state's recognition that the existing income limit has become insufficient, particularly in light of the rise in salaries and living costs.
The rationale behind this proposal is grounded in the reality that many individuals from the OBC community who could benefit from reservation policies and government schemes are being excluded due to the current income cap. The rise in salaries, especially following the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission, has pushed many government employees and their families above the Rs 8 lakh threshold, rendering them ineligible for benefits intended for the community. This situation has effectively deprived many OBC students from accessing scholarships and educational opportunities that are crucial for their advancement.
The Maharashtra cabinet has also taken a crucial step towards providing greater protection and representation to the Scheduled Castes (SC) community by deciding to issue an ordinance granting statutory status to the Maharashtra State Commission for Scheduled Castes. This move aims to empower the commission with greater authority and independence, enabling it to effectively address issues faced by the SC community and ensure their rights are safeguarded. The ordinance will be placed for approval during the upcoming assembly session.
Community leaders, recognizing the need for a more inclusive and equitable approach, have been vocal in their support for raising the income cap. They argue that the current Rs 8 lakh cap has remained stagnant for far too long and is no longer reflective of the economic realities faced by the OBC community. They advocate for a significantly higher cap, proposing a figure of at least Rs 30 lakh per annum, to ensure that a wider segment of the community can benefit from the various schemes and opportunities meant for them. The state government's proposal is a positive step towards addressing the issue of financial exclusion and ensuring that the OBC community has a fair chance to access opportunities and improve their socio-economic standing.
Source: Up non-creamy layer cap to Rs 15 lakh for scholarships: Maharashtra to Centre