Affirmative action and caste quotas in India

Affirmative action and caste quotas in India
Affirmative action and caste quotas in India

Affirmative action and caste quotas in India

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India is frequently hailed as one of the most diverse countries in the world, boasting hundreds of languages and thousands of ethnic groups. It’s also home to one of the world’s oldest forms of affirmative action. Reservations, which came into effect shortly after Indian independence, ensure the employment and education of historically disadvantaged castes or tribes. Recently, however, the quota system is seeing some resistance as the Patels, a group synonymous with success in India, also want to be included. Dr. Arvind Sharma, a professor of comparative religion at McGill University, joins us to discuss the history of reservations and the Patels’ claims. (Photo: Associated Press/Altaf Qadri)