Will Karnataka's Caste Census Be Completed by October 19?
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Synopsis
As Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah gears up for the completion of the caste census by October 19, the state is buzzing with activity. With government schools on holiday to facilitate the enumeration, teachers are working diligently to cover millions of households. Learn more about the challenges and commitments surrounding this critical survey.
Key Takeaways
- The caste census is set to complete by October 19.
- Holidays for schools aim to support the enumeration efforts.
- A significant number of teachers are involved in the survey.
- Compensation is provided for deceased teachers.
- Diverse completion rates exist across different districts.
Bengaluru, Oct 7 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, has officially announced that the Social-Economic and Academic Survey, often referred to as the Caste Census, is set for completion by October 19.
To aid in this enumeration process, the government has declared holidays for all government schools statewide.
The initial deadline for finishing the survey was set for today, October 7.
“The survey work will conclude by October 19. We encountered some technical issues initially, but those are being resolved. I extend my gratitude to all enumerators,” stated Siddaramaiah during a press briefing in Bengaluru after a review meeting.
The Socio-Economic and Educational survey of Karnataka’s population commenced on September 2 and was initially scheduled to wrap up on October 7; however, several districts have not yet completed the process.
“In Koppal, 97% of the survey is done, but merely 67% is completed in Mangaluru, indicating significant disparities across the state,” he noted.
The Chief Minister mentioned discussions between the Education Department and the Backward Classes Commission regarding the delays, as approximately 1.2 lakh teachers and 1.6 lakh staff are dedicated to the survey.
In response to a request from Congress Legislative Council member Puttanna and teachers’ associations for an extension of ten days, the government has decided to grant holidays for government and aided schools until October 18, translating to eight working days off.
Since the II PUC mid-term examinations are scheduled from October 12, pre-university college lecturers will be exempt from survey duties.
“In Bengaluru, 6,700 teachers are engaged in the survey. With 46 lakh households in the city, each teacher is tasked with covering 10-15 houses daily, he added.
Siddaramaiah emphasized the importance of completing the survey in Bengaluru before Naraka Chaturdashi.
“Teachers have assured that they will finish the work within the stipulated time frame. Currently, only 36% of the enumeration in Bengaluru has been completed, which is insufficient. I have communicated with all senior bureaucrats, and they have confirmed the work will be done before Diwali,” he asserted.
He also revealed that three teachers lost their lives while on duty, and the government will provide Rs 20 lakh to each of their families as compensation.
“Disciplinary actions will be taken against those refusing or hesitating to participate in the survey. Delays in some areas within the Greater Bengaluru Area (GBA) are attributed to election commission duties and training programs, affecting completion rates,” he explained.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar mentioned that teachers will conduct special classes to cover the syllabus missed during the holidays.
“They have committed in writing that students will not miss any academic content,” he added.
Point of View
The caste census in Karnataka represents a pivotal moment in understanding socio-economic dynamics. As states navigate the complexities of caste and community, the completion of this survey is crucial for equitable resource allocation and representation. Ensuring accurate data collection will empower marginalized groups and shape future policies.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for Karnataka's caste census?
The caste census in Karnataka is scheduled to be completed by October 19.
Why were holidays declared for schools?
Holidays were declared for government schools to assist teachers in the enumeration process for the caste census.
How many teachers are involved in the caste census?
Approximately 1.2 lakh teachers and 1.6 lakh staff members are engaged in the survey work.
What compensation is offered to the families of deceased teachers?
The government will provide Rs 20 lakh to the families of each teacher who died while on survey duty.
What is the completion rate of the survey in Bengaluru?
As of now, only 36% of the enumeration has been completed in Bengaluru.
