India does not have official, up-to-date caste-wise population data, as the last full caste census was conducted in 1931. However, based on surveys, estimates, and government data, some broad population groups are identified.
Major caste groups by population (approximate understanding):
- Other Backward Classes (OBCs)
- Estimated: 40-50% of India’s population
- Includes many regional and occupational castes
- Considered the largest social category
- Scheduled Castes (SCs)
- Estimated: 16-17%
- Historically marginalized communities
- Recognized under the Constitution for affirmative action
- Scheduled Tribes (STs)
- Estimated: 8-9%
- Indigenous tribal communities
- General Category (Forward Castes)
- Estimated: 15-25%
- Includes groups like Brahmins, Rajputs, Baniyas, etc.
Important Note:
- India has thousands of castes and sub-castes, so identifying a single “biggest caste” is complex.
- Most data is based on estimates, surveys (like NSSO), and state-level studies, not exact census figures.
Key Takeaway:
The largest population group in India is OBC (Other Backward Classes), followed by SC, ST, and General categories, but exact caste-wise numbers are not officially available.