What Is the Need for a Caste Census?
Many individuals believe that conducting a caste census may not align with the principles of equality and justice outlined in the Constitution. One viewpoint suggests that reservations already exist and, if implemented properly, can provide sufficient support to those in need. Increasing reservation quotas further might not be necessary, as everyone should ideally have equal rights.
– Agaldutikar Rajnikanth, an IT employee from Hyderabad, expressed this perspective.
The Value of a Skill Census
A skill census, on the other hand, is seen as a practical approach to addressing unemployment and improving socio-economic conditions. It helps governments and organizations identify skill gaps, plan training programs, and prepare the workforce to meet industry demands. For a country with a large youth population like India, skilling and upskilling the youth can play a crucial role in empowering them and enhancing their job prospects.
The Andhra Pradesh government’s decision to conduct a skill census is being appreciated as a forward-thinking move. Such a census can help align youth skillsets with global standards, making them more competitive in the job market.
– Dr. B. Madhusudhan Reddy, a retired Associate Professor from Karimnagar, supports this initiative and believes that a skill census is more beneficial than a caste census in today’s digital era.
Caste Census: A Political Move?
Some view the caste census as a politically driven decision that may not lead to meaningful outcomes. Instead of focusing on caste-based data, they argue that governments should prioritize efforts like skill surveys, which provide actionable insights to bridge industry needs and workforce capabilities.
– Vijay Bhaskar, a private employee, pointed out that conducting a caste census may not even be permissible under Supreme Court orders. He emphasized that a skill survey would be a more effective way to gather useful data.
In summary, while the debate around caste and skill censuses continues, many voices are advocating for skill development initiatives to empower the youth and address unemployment more effectively.
