Telangana’s Caste Survey Released; Reveals Backward Classes as Majority

Telangana government has released the findings of its extensive caste survey, revealing that Backward Classes (BCs) make up 56.33 per cent of the state’s population, as reported by The Indian Express.

The long-awaited report, tabled before a Cabinet sub-committee, is expected to shape future welfare policies and socio-economic development initiatives.

The survey places the Scheduled Castes (SCs) at 17.43 per cent, Scheduled Tribes (STs at 10.45 per cent), and Other Castes (OCs) at 15.79 per cent of Telangana’s population.

Among BCs, Muslims account for 10.08 per cent, while OC Muslims constitute 2.48 per cent, bringing the total Muslim population to 12.56 per cent.

The survey, conducted by the state’s planning department, covered 3.54 crore people and 96.9 per cent of households within just 50 days.

At a press conference in Hyderabad, Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy lauded the effort, calling it a "historic day for social justice" and a turning point in Telangana’s governance.

"The completed report stands as a milestone that will redefine governance and policy-making in the state." he said.

The caste survey was a key poll promise of the Congress Party in the 2023 Assembly elections, helping it secure a decisive victory over the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS).

The findings are set to influence policy decisions on reservation, education, employment, and financial assistance for groups.

BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar hailed the survey as a "golden chapter in Telangana’s history," with citizens actively participating and placing their trust in the new government.

The report will be formally presented to the Telangana Cabinet on 4 February, followed by a short discussion in the Assembly.

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