Wednesday, June, 03,2026

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The race to be Backward: 70% reservation, 100% politics

Why does everyone want to be backward in the country? The reason is simple—free or subsidized education, coaching, admission with low marks, reservation in jobs, loans and housing priority, scholarships, age discounts, promotions in jobs, and political representation. Such benefits look more attractive, lucrative, and easy.

Recently, two incidents completely exposed this contradiction. After a long struggle in Maharashtra, the Maratha community— which was once among the largest kingdoms of India— is in preparation to declare “backward.” At the same time, the video of the daughter of the first-class officer, who passed the UPSC by taking advantage of reservation and flaunting her luxurious life—foreign tour, expensive bag—went viral on social media. This contradiction is clearly visible: now the basis of eligibility is not necessity; it is caste only. In such a situation, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is also indicating to increase reservation after the caste census, which is expected to increase from 50 percent to 80-100 percent.

The contradiction is even clear elsewhere. The rich candidates take advantage of the fee exemption, subsidy, and scholarship, while the children of poor general category students equally suffer from high fees and examination expenses and often, despite having high marks, are left behind. The question arises: Is reservation actually a means of raising the underprivileged, or has it become a medium to promote facilities?

Despite the Supreme Court’s decision in the historic Indra Sahni (1992), which limited reservation to 50% to maintain balance between equality and positive discrimination, many states have crossed this limit repeatedly. In Tamil Nadu, it is 69%; in Chhattisgarh, 76%; in Madhya Pradesh, 73%; in Rajasthan, 72%; in Bihar, 75%; in Gujarat, 72%; in Karnataka, 85%; and in Telangana, 80%, while in some northeastern states, it reaches 100%. These expansions are mostly based on caste surveys. Often governments use reservation for caste vote banks rather than real needs.

Data clearly demonstrates the existence of inequality. West Bengal PSC (2017) had a reserved category cut-off of 0.00, while the general category was 80.67. IIM Rohtak (2025) reserved candidates got admission at 30 percent, while the 95th percentile was required for general candidates. The difference of about 50% in admission in DRDO recruitment (2023) was seen. In Odisha (2025), a general category Sanskrit teacher did not even get selected with 125 marks, while the reserved category candidate was selected with only 11 marks. A medical officer in Tripura PSC (2025) was selected in just 14 points. In Rajasthan RPSC, a candidate was declared eligible despite -9.79 marks in mathematics. In the Rajasthan Medical Officer List (2025), 85% of ST seats were given only to the Meena community. Fees also have huge inequality: MBBS in Pune was `10 lakh for normal students, while almost free for reserved students; `10.18 lakh (cut-off 93) for general students in IIT Kanpur (2025–26), while almost free for reserved students (cut-off 50). The LIC AE exam fee is Rs 750 for general students and only Rs 85 for reserved students. These figures indicate that in many places the representation is above the qualifications—it is in the education, health, or defence sector.

The debate of the Constituent Assembly makes it clear that reservation was brought as a temporary measure, which should have been reviewed every ten years, and its purpose was to reduce historical discrimination. Articles 15 (4) and 16 (4) empowered the state to make special provisions for socially and educationally backward classes, but instead the reservation continued to grow continuously. The Mandal Commission (1980) recommended 27% reservation for OBC, which was implemented in 1990. The Sachar Committee (2006) exposed the economic and educational backwardness of Muslims, increasing demand for special benefits for minorities. The Raghunath Mishra Commission (2007) recommended SC status for Dalit Christians and Dalit Muslims. Recently, the 103rd Constitution Amendment (2019) added a 10% reservation for the economically weaker section .

Debate on reservation often distracts attention from India’s real shortcomings. India is far behind in higher education, skills, and science technology. According to the All-India Higher Education Survey 2022–23, only 27% of the qualified age group reaches higher education, compared to 69% in South Korea and 65% in Germany. Statistics of the National Skill Development Corporation show that only 4.7% of India’s workforces formally efficient, while South Korea is 96%, Korea is 75%, and Germany is 75%. The situation in rural areas is even more serious— according to ASER 2023, only 20% of children are capable of studying mathematics at their classroom level. According to UNESCO and DST, there are only 156 researchers per 10,000 population in India, while there are 740 in South Korea and 435 in Germany. India’s expenditure on research and development is only 0.8% of GDP, while it is 2–3% in developed countries. Investment in industrial training is also low— according to NSSO 2021– 22, only 5% of enterprises participate in formal skill development. It is clear from these data that no reservation expansion can bring permanent empowerment without improving education, skills, and science-technology.

Improvement does not mean to eliminate positive discrimination but to Mold it according to the needs of the 21st century. For this, strong economic filters should be implemented so that the benefits reach the real backward families, not the rich “cream layer.” Minimum capacity standards should be fixed in important areas like medical, education, and defence. Governments should invest in school quality, corrective coaching, and targeted scholarships instead of reduced standards so that the deprived class can compete with equality. In addition, like the Finance Commission, a mechanism should review the results of reservation in every decade, and the policies should be dead so that they are renewed only when clear progress is visible.

Today India stands at a turn. The country wants global leadership in defence, health, and technology, but these ambitions weaken when the identity always overshadows merit. The big dilemma is: Can a nation really move forward if most of its population remains in the race to be “backward”? Social justice should be the cornerstone of democracy. But until there is a balance in reservation—merit with fertility, fairness with opportunity—its burden will not only be on the underprivileged but also on the future of the whole country.

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

Gajendra Singh, The writer is Social Thinker & Development Professional

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Daily Astro

03-06-2026

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Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

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Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

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Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

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Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

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Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

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Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

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Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

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Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

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Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

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Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

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Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

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03-06-2026