What is Economically Weaker Section (EWS)?
Historical Background
Key Points
8 points- 1.
10% reservation in government jobs and educational institutions for EWS candidates.
- 2.
Eligibility criteria based on family income and asset ownership.
- 3.
Family income limit typically set by state governments, often around ₹8 lakh per annum.
- 4.
Candidates must not belong to SC, ST, or OBC categories.
- 5.
Aims to promote social equity and inclusion.
- 6.
The definition and criteria for EWS may vary across states.
- 7.
The Supreme Court has upheld the validity of the EWS reservation.
- 8.
The EWS quota is applied horizontally, meaning it is within the existing unreserved seats.
Visual Insights
EWS Reservation: Key Features
Comparison table highlighting the key features of the EWS reservation.
| Feature | Details | Constitutional Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Reservation Quota | 10% in government jobs and educational institutions | Article 15(6) and Article 16(6) |
| Eligibility Criteria | Family income below ₹8 lakh per annum and asset ownership criteria | Defined by state governments |
| Beneficiaries | General category candidates not belonging to SC, ST, or OBC | Based on social category |
Recent Developments
5 developmentsOngoing debates and discussions regarding the criteria for EWS identification.
Challenges and litigations related to the implementation of EWS reservation.
Periodic review of the income and asset criteria by state governments.
Impact assessment of the EWS reservation on social and economic outcomes.
Supreme Court judgments clarifying the scope and applicability of the EWS quota.