 |
|
The recently concluded caste survey in Telangana has unveiled significant demographic information, revealing that Backward Classes (BCs), excluding Muslim minorities, constitute the largest social group within the state. This comprehensive survey, undertaken by the state planning department and submitted to a cabinet subcommittee, provides a detailed breakdown of the state's population based on caste and religious affiliation. The findings are poised to significantly influence the formulation of social, economic, and political policies in Telangana. The sheer scale of the undertaking – encompassing 96.9% of the population, or 354,775,54 individuals – is a testament to the state government's commitment to comprehensive data collection. This level of participation, despite a 3.1% exclusion rate attributable to unavailability or unwillingness to participate, speaks volumes about the engagement of the Telangana population in this important social endeavor. The survey's results confirm the immense influence and prominence of BC communities in shaping the socio-political landscape of the state, marking a significant milestone in understanding the intricate social fabric of Telangana.
The survey's findings highlight the numerical dominance of non-Muslim BCs, comprising a staggering 46.25% of Telangana's population of 3.70 crore. This represents a significant portion of the electorate and underscores the importance of addressing the needs and concerns of this substantial segment of the population. In contrast, Scheduled Castes (SCs) account for 17.43%, Scheduled Tribes (STs) for 10.45%, and Muslim BCs for 10.08%. Other Castes (OCs) constitute 13.31% of the population, with OCs within the Muslim community accounting for 2.48%. The survey's absolute numbers further emphasize the size of these groups: SCs number 61,84,319; STs, 37,05,929; non-Muslim BCs, 1,64,09,179; Muslim BCs, 35,76,588; and OCs within the Muslim community, 8,80,424. The total Muslim population in Telangana is reported as 12.56% of the total population. This granular data offers policymakers a precise understanding of the various social groupings within the state, enabling the targeted allocation of resources and the creation of policies specifically designed to address the needs of each group.
The release of the survey results has been hailed as a historic achievement by Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy, who emphasized their role in driving data-driven policymaking. The findings are scheduled for presentation to the Telangana Cabinet and during a special session of the Legislative Assembly. This public dissemination underscores the government's transparency and commitment to engaging in open dialogue about the implications of the survey. The data will undeniably influence policy decisions across diverse sectors – social welfare, economic development, education, and politics. By providing detailed demographic data, the survey equips the government with the tools necessary to effectively target welfare programs and initiatives, ensuring equitable opportunities for all segments of society. This commitment aligns with a previous Congress election promise made by Rahul Gandhi, highlighting the survey's importance in fulfilling a long-standing commitment to social justice. The 50-day survey, commencing November 6, 2024, showcases the ambitious nature of the project and its commitment to achieving comprehensive data collection.
The survey's impact extends beyond immediate policy considerations. It offers a valuable historical record of Telangana's social composition, providing a baseline for future comparative studies and long-term monitoring of social change. This detailed demographic profile will undoubtedly inform future research, academic discussions, and ongoing policy evaluations. The data can serve as a benchmark against which the efficacy of future policies can be measured, enabling continuous improvement and refinement of government strategies. Furthermore, the survey's meticulous methodology and commitment to data accuracy provide a model for other states striving to improve their understanding of population demographics and needs. The survey's success in achieving a high level of participation underscores the potential for similar initiatives in other regions, demonstrating the importance of civic engagement in the development of effective policies. The findings from the Telangana caste survey are significant not just for Telangana but also serve as a valuable case study for other states and nations seeking to better understand and address the needs of their diverse populations.
Source: Non-Muslim backward classes largest social group in Telangana, shows caste survey