Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has voiced strong support for the Centre’s decision to conduct a caste-based census, calling it “a step in the right direction” and “the need of the hour.” He emphasized that the exercise would offer a clear picture of the social and economic standing of various communities in Goa, enabling the government to design more effective welfare policies tailored to the state’s diverse population.
Sawant made the statement after attending the NDA Chief Ministers’ Conclave in New Delhi, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The high-level meeting, which focused on good governance, national security, and inclusive development, brought together over 20 chief ministers and 18 deputy chief ministers from NDA-ruled states.
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Two key resolutions were passed: one lauding the armed forces for the successful Operation Sindoor, and another supporting the caste census initiative.
The Union Cabinet’s recent approval of the caste-based census marks a significant policy shift from the traditional reliance on the decennial population census. This standalone census aims to provide detailed data on caste demographics at both national and state levels.
“This census will help the government understand the real picture of Goa’s communities”
Sawant and several local leaders believe the move is essential to addressing socio-economic disparities. With accurate data, the government can allocate resources more efficiently and plan targeted development schemes for Goa.
Leaders from communities such as the Bhandari Samaj have welcomed the initiative, citing it as a long-standing demand that could highlight caste-based inequalities in the state.
“This census will help the government understand the real picture of Goa’s communities and frame welfare schemes accordingly,” Sawant said.
