Bihar caste based survey
The second set of data from the Bihar government’s caste-based survey reveals concerning economic conditions for many families in the state. Approximately 34.13% of all families in Bihar earn less than ₹6,000 per month, while 29.61% survive on ₹10,000 or less. Only less than 4% of families earn more than ₹50,000 per month.
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes households face higher poverty rates, with 42.93% and 42.70% respectively living in poverty. Backward and Extremely Backward Classes also experience significant poverty rates at 33.16% and 33.58%. Among other castes, 23.72% of families are considered poor.
The data highlights the challenges faced by marginalized communities and backward classes, which constitute over 80% of Bihar’s population. In contrast, only 25.09% of General Category families are considered poor.
The report also sheds light on literacy rates in Bihar, with an overall literacy rate of 79.70%. Interestingly, the literacy rate is higher among women compared to men, with 953 literate females for every 1,000 males.
The demand for a nationwide caste census has gained momentum since the release of Bihar’s data, becoming a significant political issue in several states and ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Union Home Minister Amit Shah indicated a willingness to consider a caste census, reversing the BJP’s earlier stance.
The economic disparities and need for comprehensive data on caste demographics reflect the complex social and economic landscape in Bihar and have significant implications for policy and political discussions.
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