New Delhi, November 10, 2023 - In a historic move, the Bihar Assembly has unanimously passed a groundbreaking bill to increase the reservation quota for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) from 50% to 65%. This decision comes in the wake of the release of socio-economic data about the state's population, marking the country's inaugural caste survey since Independence.

Earlier this week, the Bihar government unveiled crucial data shedding light on the socio-economic status of the state's 13 crore residents. The survey disclosed that over 94 lakh families, regardless of caste or community, earn Rs 6,000 per month, emphasizing the pervasive nature of poverty in Bihar.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, in a post-survey debate on November 7, expressed his clear intention to augment reservations in government jobs and educational institutions. The passed bill reflects this commitment by adjusting the existing reservation percentages.

The joint statement released after the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and King Namgyal highlighted several key agreements. One of the most significant points was the establishment of an immigration post between the two countries, facilitating the movement of third-country nationals by land. This move is expected to boost trade and further strengthen economic ties between India and Bhutan.

Under the revised policy, the reservation for SCs has been increased from 16% to 20%, while that for STs has been raised from 1% to 2%. Simultaneously, the quota for OBCs and Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) has surged from 30% to 43%. Notably, the 10% reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) remains untouched. With these changes, the total reservation in the state now stands at an unprecedented 75%.
This move signifies a significant step towards social inclusivity and equitable representation, addressing the economic challenges faced by various communities in Bihar. The increased reservation quota aims to bridge gaps, foster diversity, and create a more inclusive landscape for the state's diverse populace.

The unanimous passage of this bill is a testament to the Bihar government's commitment to fostering a society that provides equal opportunities for all its citizens. As the state pioneers this progressive change, it sets a remarkable precedent for other regions to follow in promoting inclusivity and addressing socio-economic disparities through affirmative action.