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Bengaluru, Oct 20 (IANS) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Sunday confirmed that the state government has extended the ongoing social and educational survey – commonly known as ‘caste census’ – till October 31.
The survey, led by the Karnataka State Backward Classes Commission, began on September 22 and was initially scheduled to end by October 7.
After extending the mid-term till October 18, which coincided with the long Dussehra holidays for government and private aided schools, the administration has now opted for a further extension.
Notably, teachers – who were earlier deployed as enumerators – will no longer be included in the survey.
“We have achieved around 90 per cent coverage in most of the districts except Bengaluru South, Bidar and Dharwad,” Shivakumar said. He said Bengaluru city has seen 67 per cent participation, with 20 per cent respondents not disclosing.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met senior ministers, officials and commission chairman Madhusudan R on Sunday to assess the progress of the survey. Chaired a high level review meeting with Naik.
Addressing the media, Shivakumar announced that government employees other than teachers will now be tasked with completing the census.
He said, “There will be Diwali holiday for the survey staff on October 20-22. Online options are also being made available for the convenience of the public.”
Urging citizens from all communities to join the survey process, Shivakumar stressed the importance of participation, saying, “This is an important opportunity. Answer the questions you want to answer.”
The survey, based on a scientifically structured 60-question format, is estimated to cost Rs 420 crore.
This follows a previous attempt in 2015, in which Rs 165.51 crore was spent on a similar survey, which was ultimately shelved.
As Karnataka tackles the complexities of social data collection, the extended timeline and revised staffing approach reflects the state government’s intention to ensure broad and inclusive coverage without disrupting the academic programme.
The move also signals a shift toward digital convenience, potentially broadening reach and making participation easier across urban and rural demographics.
–IANS
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