Prelims pointers
National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC)
1. Constitutional Status:
- Granted constitutional status via 102nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 2018.
- Added Article 338B, defining the structure, duties, and powers of the NCBC.
2. Key Functions of NCBC:
- Investigate complaints regarding the deprivation of rights of backward classes.
- Advise the central and state governments on inclusion or exclusion of groups in the list of backward classes.
- Monitor the implementation of safeguards for backward classes under the Constitution.
- Present annual and special reports to the President.
3. Composition:
- Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and three members appointed by the President.
- Tenure: Three years, subject to extension or reappointment.
4. Key Developments (Current Affairs):
- Caste Census Demand (2021–2023): NCBC endorsed the need for caste-based data to ensure targeted policies.
- Maratha Quota Issue (2021): NCBC studied implications of including Marathas in the central OBC list post-SC ruling.
- Rohini Commission Report Pending (2023): Delayed report on OBC sub-categorization has impacted NCBC's advisory roles.
- EWS Quota Controversy (2022): NCBC recommended periodic review of EWS eligibility criteria to avoid overlaps with OBC benefits.
- Demand for Inclusion of Communities: States like Haryana (Jats) and Rajasthan (Gujjars) petitioned NCBC for central OBC status.
5. Recent Initiatives by NCBC:
- Conducted nationwide public hearings (2022–2023) to review grievances of OBC communities.
- Recommended changes in the creamy layer income limit to address inflation and socio-economic changes.
- Collaborated with states to strengthen the database on backward class populations and their representation in jobs and education.
6. Challenges Faced by NCBC:
- Lack of clarity in identifying sub-categories within OBCs for equitable distribution.
- Overlapping jurisdiction with state commissions for backward classes.
- Delayed action on recommendations due to political and bureaucratic hurdles.
- Insufficient budget and resources for conducting nationwide surveys.
UPSC Mains-style answers (~300 words)
2. National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC)
The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) is a constitutional body established through the 102nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 2018. It aims to promote and safeguard the interests of socially and educationally backward classes (SEBCs).
Functions of NCBC:
- Grievance Redressal: Investigates complaints of deprivation of rights and discrimination against backward classes.
- Advisory Role: Recommends policies for SEBC welfare, including education and employment reservations.
- Inclusion/Exclusion: Examines requests for the inclusion or exclusion of communities in the backward class list.
- Research & Reports: Submits annual reports to the President on the welfare of SEBCs.
Recent Developments (Current Affairs):
- In 2023, NCBC advocated for better implementation of OBC reservations in central universities and public employment.
- The push for caste-based census has been a key demand, with NCBC supporting its necessity to ensure equitable resource allocation.
- Concerns were raised about underutilization of reserved seats, particularly in higher education.
Challenges:
- Lack of clear data due to absence of a recent caste census.
- Coordination issues between states and the central government in implementing policies.
- Political interference and delays in updating backward class lists.
Way Forward:
- Conducting periodic socio-economic surveys for accurate identification of SEBCs.
- Strengthening the NCBC’s powers to ensure its recommendations are binding.
- Enhancing awareness among backward class communities about their rights and opportunities.
