Affirmative action policies aim to address historical injustices.
Key Policies:
- Reservation Policy: Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
- Quota System: Government jobs and education.
- Scholarships: Financial assistance.
Effectiveness:
Positive Outcomes:
- Increased Representation: SCs, STs, and OBCs in government jobs and education.
- Improved Access: Enhanced access to education and employment.
- Social Mobility: Upward mobility for marginalized groups.
Challenges:
- Implementation Gaps: Inadequate implementation.
- Creamy Layer Issue: Benefits accruing to affluent sections.
- Backlash: Resistance from dominant castes
India’s Position
- SC/ST Representation: Increased from 10.3% (1995) to 17.4% (2020) in government jobs.
- OBC Representation: Increased from 12.5% (1995) to 21.5% (2020) in government jobs.
- Education Enrollment: SC/ST enrollment increased from 10.1% (2006) to 14.6% (2019)
Legacy Editor Changed status to publish April 10, 2025