Karnataka’s Caste Survey to Cost ₹420 Crore, Report Expected by December: CM Siddaramaiah

Bengaluru, September 13: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Friday that Karnataka’s much-awaited Social and Educational Survey, popularly known as the caste census, will begin on September 22 and conclude by October 7. The survey will cover over 7 crore residents and is expected to cost ₹420 crore, with the final report likely to be submitted by December 2025.

Addressing the media, the Chief Minister said the new data will help the state government assess the reach and impact of its welfare schemes and ensure equitable development.

“The previous caste census reports, including those by Kantharaju and Jayaprakash Hegde, are outdated. The current survey will be conducted under the supervision of Madhusudhan Naik, Chairperson of the Karnataka State Backward Classes Commission,” Siddaramaiah said.

Massive Survey Operation

To carry out the extensive survey, the government has roped in 1.75 lakh school teachers as enumerators, taking advantage of the Dasara vacation. Each enumerator is expected to cover 120–150 households and will receive a compensation of ₹20,000.

Although the enumeration itself is estimated to cost ₹325 crore, the government has allocated ₹420 crore to ensure seamless execution, with a provision to increase funds if needed.

High-Tech, Household-Level Data Collection

To enhance accuracy and prevent duplication, the survey will adopt technological tools, including:

• Geo-tagging of households
• Assigning a Unique Household ID (UHID)
• Linking ration cards and Aadhaar details to mobile numbers

So far, 1.55 lakh UHIDs have already been issued.

ASHA workers will first visit households to distribute a 60-question survey form, which residents can fill out ahead of the enumerators’ visits.

An online option is also available. Citizens can participate by logging on to https://kscbc.karnataka.gov.in. A helpline has been set up at 8050770004 for any assistance.

Survey Content: What Will Be Asked

The comprehensive survey will collect information on:

• Religion and caste
• Educational qualifications
• Mother tongue and marital status
• Health insurance coverage
• Land ownership and livestock
• Toilets, water supply, electricity, internet, and roads
• Ownership of vehicles and electronic devices
• Computer literacy and loans

It will also gather data on access to playgrounds, parks, and public amenities.

Clarifications on Community Categories

Responding to queries about communities with dual identities like “Vokkaliga Christian” or “Christian Kuruba,” the Chief Minister clarified that individuals who have converted will be categorized under Christian. The Backward Classes Commission will take the final call on such classifications.

Census Will Be Completed On Time

CM Siddaramaiah expressed confidence that the allotted 16-day period is adequate for completing the survey and reiterated the importance of everyone’s participation.

“We are committed to completing the caste census on time. The data will help us make informed decisions to strengthen social justice and governance,” he said.