Odisha Approves 11.25% Reservation for SEBC in Higher Education
(Source – The Hindu , Section – Explained, Page 4)
| Topic: GS2: Social Justice, Education, Reservation Policy |
| Context |
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Analysis of the news:
New Policy Details
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Reservation to be implemented across public universities and aided institutions.
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Applies to departments under School, Higher Education, Odia Language, and Youth Services Ministries.
Background
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Odisha did not previously have OBC/SEBC reservations in education.
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Employment reservations existed at 27% until struck down by the High Court in 2007.
Significance of Move
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It fulfills a long-standing political and social demand.
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Aims to address educational inequality for backward classes in Odisha.
Implementation Challenges
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Balancing existing quotas for SCs, STs, and PwDs under the 50% cap set by the Supreme Court.
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Legal scrutiny likely if challenged in court.
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Need for caste census data to substantiate inclusiveness.
Way Forward
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Commission a state-specific social and educational backwardness survey.
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Ensure reservation does not compromise merit in critical streams.
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Complement quota with scholarships, preparatory programs, and remedial support.
| Practice Question: Evaluate the recent move by Odisha to reserve seats for SEBCs in higher education. What are the legal, social, and policy implications of expanding reservation policies in India? (250 Words /15 marks) |
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