In this article, we aim to explain the sub-communities of the Hindu caste category like Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and OBCs and discuss why an SC ST OBC certificate is necessary.
The Hindu caste system is divided into multiple levels according to the origin and history of our ancestors beyond the usual ‘varna system’. The Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Caste category differ from the typical varna system. These castes and tribes are collectively known as backward classes because of their long history of struggle for equal rights in Indian society. They have been socially and economically disadvantaged and continue to be so in some parts of the country.
However, people from other classes are gradually doing away with these prejudices and learning to give them back their place in society. The practice of reservation by the government ensures that a certain percentage of people from these backward classes secure admissions and jobs in government sectors. Read this blog to know who is in India, what is scheduled caste and what is ST caste.
Who are the Scheduled Castes?
Scheduled Caste are a part of Indian society that has had to deal with oppression and discrimination in the past and on several occasions, even now. According to the Constitution Order, of 1950, only marginalised Hindu communities can be considered Scheduled Caste. Sometimes scheduled caste referred to as ‘Dalits,’ people of the Scheduled Caste are regarded as untouchables even today. The Hindu varna system states that there are four major varnas, namely, the Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras. Those who belong to one of those four varnas are called ‘savarna.’ However, the Scheduled Caste are often regarded as ‘avarnas’ or people who do not fall into the caste category of these four varnas.
Who are the Scheduled Tribes?
Like those who belong to Scheduled Caste, those classified as Scheduled Tribes have also had a long history of oppression and struggle. They, too, are ‘avarnas’ and are given the name ‘Scheduled’ as they fall under one of the schedules of the Constitution of India. Adivasis usually comprise the Scheduled Tribes.
Difference Between Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes
The Indian Constitution recognizes two historically disadvantaged groups: Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). While both receive affirmative action benefits, there are key differences in their historical experiences and social identities. Let’s break it down:
Origin and Social Status:
- Scheduled Castes (SCs): Traditionally associated with the caste system, SCs were formerly known as “untouchables” and faced social exclusion and discrimination based on their caste.
- Scheduled Tribes (STs): STs are indigenous communities who have inhabited specific geographical regions for generations. They often have distinct languages, customs, and cultural practices.
Geographical Distribution:
- SCs: Scattered throughout India, with higher concentrations in some southern and northern states.
- STs: Predominantly concentrated in hilly and forested areas, particularly in central and eastern India.
Identification Method:
- SCs: Identified based on a list of castes specified in the Constitution’s Scheduled Castes Order for each state/union territory.
- STs: Identified based on a list of tribes specified in the Scheduled Tribes Order for each state/union territory. These lists consider factors like geographical isolation, primitive traits, distinctive culture, and social backwardness.
Government Support:
Both SCs and STs benefit from government initiatives like reservations in education, government jobs, and legislative bodies. However, the specific schemes and support programs might differ based on their unique needs.
| Feature | Scheduled Castes (SCs) | Scheduled Tribes (STs) |
| Origin | Caste System | Indigenous Communities |
| Historical Experience | Social exclusion based on caste | Distinct cultural identity, often isolated geographically |
| Geographical Distribution | Scattered throughout India (higher concentration in some states) | Concentrated in hilly and forested areas (central and eastern India) |
| Identification Method | Listed castes in the Scheduled Castes Order for each state/union territory | Listed tribes in the Scheduled Tribes Order for each state/union territory (considers factors like geography, culture, social backwardness) |
| Government Support | Reservations in education, jobs, and legislative bodies | Reservations in education, jobs, and legislative bodies (specific programs might differ) |
What are Other Backward Classes (OBC full form)?
The term ‘OBC’ stands for ‘other backward classes’ (castes), used for the first time in the Mandal Commission’s report in 1980. OBCs are the castes that fall between the three higher varnas and the Dalits (Scheduled Castes) and Adivasis (Scheduled Tribes), and they account for roughly half of the Indian population. In the beginning, they were classified as ‘Shudras’ under the traditional varna (caste) system, i.e. the lowest of the ‘clean’ caste category.
Which Caste Comes Under the OBC Caste Category?
The Other Backward Classes (OBC) category is a collective term used in some countries, particularly India, to classify castes that are socially and educationally disadvantaged. The OBC list is extensive and dynamic:
- Central List: The central government maintains its list of OBCs. This applies to central government jobs and national educational institutions.
- State List: Each state has its unique OBC list, which may differ from the central list. This is used for state government jobs and state educational institutions.
- Evolution: The OBC list undergoes periodic revisions based on socio-economic surveys.
- Criteria: Inclusion is based on historical disadvantage, social discrimination, and lack of representation.
Always consult official government resources to determine the specific castes under the OBC category in a region.
Purpose of the SC / ST / OBC Certificate and Steps to Procure it
The government has designed the reservation scheme for backward classes from which they can only benefit if they submit their ST, OBC, or SC Caste Certificates.
The caste certificate is a legal document and proof that one belongs to a specific caste or tribe. The caste certificate allows the members of the backward classes or tribes to fully enjoy the privileges of promotion and reservation, which they were deprived of for a long time. Although people from all the other classes can apply for a caste certificate, the SC, ST, and OBC application for a caste certificate becomes all the more vital as they come with special advantages.
The caste certificate forms are available online. Some Indian states still only offer the offline mode, so if you belong to one of these states (or if you’re not tech-savvy), you can collect the application form from the nearest Tahsildar’s office in your town, village, or city. Along with filling in the form with the necessary details, you must submit photocopies of several essential documents to confirm the authenticity of your request. When these main steps have been followed, the rest of the procedure is very easy. Within 21 working days, you can expect to have your caste certificate issued.
Benefit From an SC/ST/OBC Certificate
Caste certificates are proof of caste produced to obtain some special privileges that are guaranteed as part of the Indian system of Protective Discrimination. These privileges include special seats in the Legislative Assembly and Government Services. For instance, government jobs (like IAS, IPS, etc.) and public institutions (such as IIMs and IITs) offer 27% seats under the reservation quota for the backward classes. Certain examinations, such as UPSC Civil Services Exam, also have a relaxed upper age limit.
Benefits of Being Included in the OBC Category
Being part of the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category unlocks a set of benefits designed to bridge the gap in educational and professional opportunities. Here’s how an OBC certificate empowers you:
- Boosting Your Chances in Higher Education: Many prestigious government institutions like IITs (Indian Institutes of Technology) and IIMs (Indian Institutes of Management) reserve 27% of their seats for OBC candidates. This significantly increases your odds of securing admission to these competitive programs.
- Government Job Opportunities: The Indian government reserves 27% of positions in various departments and sectors (like IAS and IPS) for OBC candidates. This reservation system helps ensure fairer representation in the workforce.
- Extending Your Eligibility Window: Age restrictions for certain government exams, including the UPSC Civil Services Exam, might be relaxed for OBC candidates. This gives you valuable additional time to prepare and achieve your goals.
- More Attempts to Shine: OBC candidates may be eligible for a relaxation in the number of attempts allowed for specific competitive examinations. This provides more chances to showcase your skills and knowledge.
- Lower Cut-Off Hurdles: OBC candidates might benefit from a slightly lower cut-off mark requirement for certain exams. This can be the deciding factor in securing that coveted seat or position.
Documents Required to Procure an SC/ST/OBC Certificate
The first step towards procuring your caste certificate is furnishing a few documents like:
- The SC ST OBC application form
https://services.india.gov.in/service/detail/online-application-of-caste-certificate - Your Aadhaar number. If you’re yet to get your Aadhaar card, you may produce your Voter ID, PAN card, Driving License, or Passport
- Current residential proof like water or electricity bill
- Marriage certificate for married women
- Any document carrying proof of birth like a school certificate or a certificate of birth
- A copy of your father’s SC/ST/OBC Certificate. In the absence of your father’s certificate, you can provide the same for any other close relative, preferably from your father’s side of the family
- Lastly, an affidavit stating that you belong to that particular caste.
Conclusion
The importance of a caste certificate can only be valued when there is a thorough understanding of the caste system, which only comes from an in-depth knowledge of caste category on what the terms SC, ST, and OBC entail. If you’re yet to apply for a caste certificate, this is the right time to go ahead and do so.
FAQs
How many categories are in OBC?
The OBC (Other Backward Classes) category itself isn't further divided into sub-categories. However, there might be state-specific classifications within the OBC for administrative purposes.
What is the quota for OBC?
The central government reserves 27% of seats in educational institutions and government jobs for OBC candidates. This quota can vary slightly depending on the state.
What is OBC category A and B?
There's no official classification within OBC as A and B categories. This might be a misconception or an internal system used by a specific institution or organization.
What is SC, ST, and OBC in India?
- SC (Scheduled Castes): Previously known as 'untouchables,' these communities faced historical social exclusion based on the caste system.
- ST (Scheduled Tribes): Indigenous communities concentrated in specific regions, with distinct languages, customs, and cultural practices.
- OBC (Other Backward Classes): A group facing social and educational backwardness, but not at the same level of disadvantage as SCs or STs. They receive affirmative action benefits to level the playing field.
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