Caste Census: Who Benefits, Who’s Worried, And What’s Next?

The Modi government has officially announced that the 2026 national census will include caste enumeration — marking a major shift in India's data collection framework. In this explainer, we break down everything you need to know about the caste census: what it is, why it matters, and the historical and political context behind it. From the last comprehensive caste census conducted in 1931, to the states like Bihar, Telangana and Karnataka that have taken the lead in recent years, we trace the journey of caste data in India. We also unpack the pros and cons — whether it empowers marginalised communities or deepens caste divisions. As India gears up for one of its most debated data exercises, this video provides the full picture behind the numbers.