Introduction
The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) is a constitutional body that serves under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment of the Government of India. Formed in 1993 and given constitutional status under the 102nd Amendment to the Indian Constitution, the commission's mission is to protect the rights of socially and educationally disadvantaged classes and secure their fair representation across different fields.
Role
The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) in India is essential for suggesting measures to the government to uplift socially and educationally backward citizens. Its key responsibilities involve proposing the addition or removal of communities from the list of socially and educationally backward classes, overseeing the execution of safeguards for these groups, and offering guidance to the government on issues concerning the welfare of backward classes.
Objective
Its objective is to review and suggest adding or removing communities from the socially and educationally backward classes list. It also counsels the government on matters concerning the well-being and progress of these classes, ensuring their protection and providing necessary assistance for their socio-economic advancement
TIMELINE
1953: The first Backward Classes Commission, also known as the Kaka Kalelkar Commission, was established to identify backward classes in India.
1980: The Mandal Commission, officially referred to as the Second Backward Classes Commission, was appointed to evaluate the status of socially and educationally backward classes and propose measures for their progress
1990: The Mandal Commission Report was enforced by then-Prime Minister V.P. Singh, resulting in the reservation of 27% of government jobs for Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
1993: The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) was formed under the National Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993. Its main duty is to review submissions for inclusion and grievances regarding the over-inclusion or under-inclusion of communities in the OBC list.
2018: The National Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993 was revised to confer constitutional status to the NCBC through the 102nd Constitutional Amendment, enhancing its authority and functions.
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COMPOSITION AND STRUCTURE
The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) in India is composed of 5 members which include a chairperson, vice-chairperson, and 3 members appointed by the President of India. The composition may change according to government regulations and amendments to the NCBC Act.
FUNCTIONS
The functions of the National Commission for Backward Classes include:
Identification of Backward Classes: The NCBC is responsible for the identification of the socially and educationally backward classes and recommending the inclusion of the classes so found in the list of backward classes.
Examination of the Requests for Inclusion and Exclusion: The Commission examines requests seeking the inclusion and exclusion of backward classes in the lists and presents its recommendations on the same to the government.
Hearing Complaints: The NCBC has the authority to examine complaints and grievances regarding the implementation of reservation policies and the safeguarding of the rights of backward classes.
Undertaking Studies and Research: Conducting studies and research related to the conditions of socially and educationally backward classes and the various measures that can be taken for their welfare for an important function of NCBC.
Advisory Role: It acts in an advisory capacity to the central and state governments on policies and programs for the development and upliftment of backward classes.
Reviewing and Monitoring: The function of reviewing the progress of the implementation of reservation policies and other measures taken for the welfare of backward classes has also to be carried out by the body.
Safeguarding Interests: It also served the function of safeguarding the interests of backward classes against any form of discrimination or exploitation.
Recommendations for Socio-Economic Development: It also releases recommendations for measures for the socio-economic development of backward classes suggesting ways to improve their representation in various sectors.
Other Important Information
Hansram Ganagaram Ahir serves as the current Chairperson of the body.
Note for UPSC Aspirants: For UPSC aspirants interested in exploring further, here are some keywords to guide your research:NCBC, India, Backward Classes, Constitutional Body, Social Justice, Empowerment, Mandal Commission, Reservation, Constitutional Status, Identification, Inclusion, Exclusion, Complaints, Advisory Role, Socio-Economic Development
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