THE GOAN NETWORK
PANAJI: Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has expressed strong support for the Centre’s decision to conduct a caste-based census, calling it “a step in the right direction” and “the need of the hour.” His remarks came after attending the NDA Chief Ministers’ Conclave chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Sunday.
“The caste census will provide a clear picture of the social and economic status of every community,” Sawant said, adding that it would help tailor welfare policies more effectively, especially in a diverse state like Goa.
The high-level conclave brought together over 20 chief ministers and 18 deputy chief ministers from across NDA-ruled states. The day-long session focused on themes such as good governance, national security, and inclusive development. Two major resolutions were passed, one commending the armed forces for the successful Operation Sindoor, and another endorsing the caste-based census initiative.
Earlier this month, the Union Cabinet gave its nod to the caste census, marking a major shift from the traditional approach of relying solely on the decennial population census. The newly approved caste census will function independently and is expected to generate detailed data on the country’s caste demographics.