Human development index in lieu of caste census 2001

The proposed caste enumeration in the census of 2001 will have deep consequ ences. The matter should be analysed at two levels. In order to understand the reality we have to ascertain the origin, evolution, and effects of cast e. And to change the system we have to devise a strategy. For redressing th e caste bias, a caste census is not necessary. A village presumably represe nts a small number (maybe, two or three) of adjacent castes. Then, the Huma n Development Index (HDI), computed village by village, can mimic the caste profile of the population. Such an index can help development-planning to eradicate, first, caste bias and then caste itself. A village-level version of the HDI can be used for an indirect estimate of caste bias, making the proposed caste census of 2001 redundant. The census instead should collect data on health, education, and earnings of the people.