Telangana Survey Reveals Scheduled Castes and Tribes Face Greater Socio-Economic Challenges

A recent caste and socio-economic survey conducted by the Telangana government has unveiled alarming disparities in socio-economic status among different caste groups in the state. The survey, which was carried out in the years 2024-2025 under the Congress-led state government, indicates that Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) are three times more backward than their General Caste counterparts. This analysis, as reported by The Indian Express, highlights the enduring challenges faced by marginalized communities in Telangana.

The findings of the survey were disclosed on Wednesday and have prompted significant discussions regarding social equity and welfare policies in the region. The data suggests that the Backward Classes, which are often seen as a bridge between the General Castes and the more disadvantaged SCs and STs, are 2.7 times more backward than the General Castes. Backward Classes Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar underscored the necessity for targeted government interventions to uplift these communities.

According to the survey results, the population distribution reveals that Scheduled Castes comprise 61,84,319 individuals, constituting approximately 17.43% of the state’s population, while Scheduled Tribes make up 37,05,929 individuals, accounting for 10.45%. The Backward Classes, excluding the Muslim minority, number around 1,64,09,179. The findings indicate that a substantial portion of the population, specifically 135 out of 242 castes in Telangana, are classified as more backward when measured against the Composite Backwardness Index (CBI) established by the state government.

This CBI serves as a methodological tool to quantitatively assess caste-based backwardness. Notably, the study found that 69 of the 135 identified backward castes belong to the Backward Classes, while 41 are from the Scheduled Castes and 25 from the Scheduled Tribes. The expert working group, which was constituted to analyze the survey findings, noted that all of the 18 castes within the more privileged General Caste category, accounting for roughly 12% of the population, fall significantly below the average on the CBI.

The implications of this survey are profound, as they call for a reassessment of government policies aimed at social welfare and the allocation of resources. As Telangana grapples with these disparities, the government is expected to formulate strategies that address the specific needs of these disadvantaged groups, ensuring that socio-economic progress is inclusive. The survey findings not only shed light on the existing inequalities but also emphasize the urgent need for systemic change to uplift the marginalized communities of Telangana.

Source: scroll.in