- Pre-Census Preparation:
- Form state-level task forces with caste leaders, local bodies, and NGOs to co-design the process, mirroring Nagaland’s tribal consultations.
- Conduct pilot surveys in diverse states to test methods and train enumerators.
- Awareness and Mobilization:
- Launch a national “Census for Equity” campaign, using regional languages, social media, and community events to highlight welfare benefits.
- Engage influencers (e.g., caste leaders, celebrities) to build support, as Nagaland did with tribal hohos.
- Data Collection:
- Deploy hybrid enumeration (digital and paper-based) to ensure inclusivity across urban and rural areas.
- Use standardized caste lists and trained enumerators to capture accurate data.
- Post-Census Actions:
- Publish data transparently, addressing SECC’s failure to release detailed findings.
- Use data to design targeted policies, e.g., education for marginalized castes, job programs for OBCs, or sub-tribal welfare in Nagaland.
The Problem: Caste discrimination continues to plague the Indian banking sector, limiting access to credit for millions of lower-caste citizens. Data Point: A study found that Scheduled Tribes (STs) face a 5-7% lower loan approval rate compared to higher castes, even after controlling for socioeconomic factors. How it Works: Discrimination in Action: Lower-caste individuals often encounter: Higher rejection rates for loan applications. Smaller loan amounts compared to higher-caste applicants. Less favorable terms, such as higher interest rates and stricter collateral requirements. The "Depositors, Not Borrowers" Mindset: Banks often view lower-caste individuals primarily as depositors, not as creditworthy borrowers. The Impact: Limited Economic Mobility: Restricted access to credit hampers entrepreneurship, reduces income growth, and perpetuates poverty cycles within marginalized communities. Reliance on Informal Lenders: The lack of access to formal ba...
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