Patna: Based on socio-economic data, from Bihar’s caste survey it has been reported that approximately 33% of individuals belonging to backward classes and extremely backward classes (EBC) in Bihar are living in poverty. The state government presented this information in the assembly. The survey also highlighted that scheduled castes (SCs) and scheduled tribes (STs) comprise some of the disadvantaged communities in the state, with poverty rates of 42.92% and 42.7%, respectively. On the other hand, individuals from the category had the lowest poverty rate at 25.09%.
According to the Bihar government, households earning less than ₹6,000 per month are considered poor.
The initial findings of the caste survey were released on October 2nd, revealing that backward communities constitute two-thirds of Bihar’s population. Among them, backward communities (comprising 112 castes) make up 36.01% of the population while backward castes (consisting of 30 communities) account for another 27.12%. Together these groups known as Backward Classes (OBC), which include both castes and EBCs represent around 63.13% of the population. Scheduled Castes make up 19.65% Scheduled Tribes, around 1.68%, while upper castes constitute approximately 15.52% of Bihar’s population. This latest data sheds light on the socio-status of these communities.
Based on the data findings, it was observed that Bhumihars, Brahmins, and Rajputs had the poverty rates within the category standing at 27.59%, 25.32%, and 24.8%, respectively. On the other hand, Kayasthas had the poverty rate of 13.83%. Among upper-caste Muslims, Sheikhs had a poverty rate of 25.84%, followed by Pathan (Khan) at 22.2% and Syaad at 17.61%.
In summary, 25.09% of individuals belonging to castes, within the category were identified as being underprivileged or impoverished.
The data indicated a higher poverty rate of 33.16% among the backward classes. Yadavs, constituting 14% of the state’s population, had 35.8% living in poverty. Other communities within the backward classes with notable poverty rates included Kushwaha (34.3%), Kurmi (29.9%), Baniya (24.6%), Momin Muslim (26.7%), Dhuniya Muslim (31.4%), and Bind (44.1%).
The extremely backward classes had a poverty rate of 33.58%.
Voting for the 40 seats in Mizoram has concluded with a 76.09% voter turnout by 5 pm. Mizoram witnessed enthusiastic participation as voters eagerly exercised their right. Chief Minister Zoramthanga also cast his vote in Aizawl during the 2023 Mizoram Assembly elections. The elections feature candidates from the ruling Mizo National Front (MNF), the primary opposition Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), Congress, BJP contesting 23 seats, and AAP with candidates in four constituencies. Additionally, 27 independent candidates are vying for electoral success. Stay tuned for the election results and updates from Mizoram.
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