HYDERABAD: The Socio, Economic, Educational, Employment, Political and Caste (SEEPC) survey has revealed that Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) are the most backward sections in the state.
BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar released data from the SEEPC survey and the IEWG report here on Wednesday.
According to the report, SCs are the most backward with a Composite Backwardness Index (CBI) score of 95, followed by BCs with a score of 86. The report finds that 135 out of 242 castes, accounting for 67% of the population, are more backward than the state average. It states that 99% of STs, 97% of SCs and 71% of BCs fall under the backward category.
The report adds that this challenges the notion of uniform development and highlights the persistence of caste-based inequality in socio-economic outcomes.
Blanket policies may not be sufficient: Report
Among the most backward communities, Bedas, Madasis and Madigas (SCs); Yerukulas and Koyas (STs); and Pitchiguntla and Odde (BCs) are identified as disadvantaged in education, employment, land access and living conditions.
Within categories, Madiga (59.09%) and Mala (23.76%) dominate among SCs, while among STs, Sugalis or Lambadas account for nearly 65%. In BCs, large groups such as Mudiraj, Yadava, Padmashali and Goud form a significant share of the population. On the other hand, traditionally dominant communities such as Reddys, Kammas, Brahmins, Komatis and Velamas show the lowest levels of deprivation.
The report suggests that blanket policies for SCs, STs or BCs may not be sufficient, and sub-caste-level targeting is essential. It adds that the survey provides an empirical basis for designing inclusive policies.