In 2019, the Government of India introduced 10 per cent reservation in education and government jobs for economically weaker sections among upper castes. How is it different from the above quote? Discuss.
The G.B. Pant quote emphasizes taking particular care of Depressed Classes, Scheduled Castes and Backward Classes – groups that have historically faced social discrimination and exclusion. The quote uses the metaphor that "the strength of the chain is measured by the weakest link," suggesting that these communities need special attention to bring them up to the general level for a healthy body politic.
In contrast, the 2019 reservation for economically weaker sections among upper castes addresses economic disadvantage rather than historical social discrimination. Upper castes have traditionally held social privilege, unlike the marginalized groups mentioned in the quote.
The context notes that proposals for extending reservation have led to counter movements opposing them. The 2019 reservation responds to demands from upper castes, whereas G.B. Pant's vision focused on uplifting the historically excluded groups like Dalits and Backward Classes.
Thus, while both aim at inclusion, G.B. Pant's approach addresses caste-based historical discrimination, while the 2019 policy addresses economic criteria among groups that were not historically marginalised on the basis of caste.
Explanation
This question tests the student's understanding of different bases for reservation policies. The G.B. Pant quote clearly focuses on historically marginalised communities (Depressed Classes, SCs, Backward Classes) who faced social exclusion. The 2019 EWS reservation differs fundamentally as it targets economic disadvantage among upper castes who historically held social privilege. The textbook context also mentions how reservation proposals have led to counter-movements, which helps explain the political context for the 2019 policy.