Q.1 Conducting a caste census is important for better targeting of welfare services; however, such an exercise is fraught with challenges to social harmony and risks polarization. Discuss. (15 Marks)

Mentor’s Comments- Briefly write about the context of Caste Census, mentioning Mandal Commission, 1931 Census and 2011 SECC. In the next part, explain its significance such as its use in evidence-based policy making, equitable representation, and understanding exact deprivation level. Also explain the challenges to it, both substantive and procedural such as caste being context-specific, … Continue reading Q.1 Conducting a caste census is important for better targeting of welfare services; however, such an exercise is fraught with challenges to social harmony and risks polarization. Discuss. (15 Marks)