The Assam government has announced a new provision allowing dual caste certificates for members of tea garden labourers, tea garden tribes, ex-tea garden labourers, and ex-tea garden tribes. The decision, formally notified by the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment, seeks to provide greater social justice and administrative clarity for historically marginalized communities.

Key Features of the Initiative

• Two Categories: Applicants from these communities can now obtain caste certificates under Other Backward Classes (OBC) or More Other Backward Classes (MOBC), with caste/community name reflected as recognised by the Government of Assam.
  
• Issuing Authority:
  
  • The existing process of caste certification continues for the first category.
  • For the second category, a three-member district committee (community representative + two social workers, nominated by the Guardian Minister) will recommend issuance.
  • Final certificates will be issued by the District Commissioner/designated authority and made available through the Sewa Setu Portal.
• Transparency & Fairness: The committee system aims to ensure inclusivity and prevent misuse.

• Significance: Ensures recognition and identity security for tea garden communities., 
  • Improves access to reservations, scholarships, and welfare schemes.
  • Enhances efficiency and transparency through digital delivery.
  • Empowers marginalized groups and strengthens Assam’s social justice framework.

Statement-Based MCQs

Q. Consider the following statements about Assam’s new provision of Dual Caste Certificates for tea garden communities:

1. The provision allows members of tea garden labourers, tea garden tribes, ex-tea garden labourers, and ex-tea garden tribes to obtain caste certificates under OBC or MOBC categories.
2. A three-member district committee, nominated by the Guardian Minister, will verify applications under the second category.
3. The caste certificates will be issued only in physical form by the District Commissioner’s office.
   

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: a)

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