India does not have an official, recent caste-wise population count, as the last comprehensive caste census was conducted in 1931. However, approximate figures are available based on surveys and government estimates.
Estimated caste-wise population distribution:
- Other Backward Classes (OBC): 40-50%
- Scheduled Castes (SC): 16-17%
- Scheduled Tribes (ST): 8-9%
- General Category (Forward Castes): 15-25%
Data Sources:
- NSSO (National Sample Survey Office)
- State-level surveys
- Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011
(Note: Full caste data was not officially released)
Why exact data is unavailable:
- India has thousands of castes and sub-castes
- No recent nationwide caste census
- Data collection is complex and sensitive
Key Takeaway:
While exact caste-wise population numbers are not officially available, OBCs form the largest group, followed by SCs, STs, and General category, based on widely accepted estimates.
