How to Apply for a Caste Certificate in India

In India, government policies provide special provisions for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) to promote social and economic equality. To access these benefits such as reservations in education, employment, and government welfare schemes individuals must obtain a Caste Certificate. This document officially certifies a person's caste and is issued by the respective state government.

Who Needs a Caste Certificate?

A caste certificate is typically required for:

Students applying for educational reservations

Individuals seeking government jobs under reserved categories

Beneficiaries of government schemes

Applicants seeking fee waivers or age relaxation

How to Apply for a Caste Certificate: Step-by-Step Process

Gather Required Documents

You will generally need the following:

Proof of identity (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN)

Proof of address (Electricity bill, Ration card, Aadhaar)

Affidavit/self-declaration confirming caste

Caste certificate of parents/relatives (if available)

Recent passport-size photo

Choose Application Mode

Offline Method (Tehsildar or SDM Office)

Visit the local Tehsildar/Taluk/Revenue Office.

Collect and fill the caste certificate application form.

Attach necessary documents.

Submit the form with a self-attested affidavit.

Keep the receipt for future tracking.

Online Method (State-Specific Portals)

Visit your state's official caste certificate portal.

Register/login using your mobile number or Aadhaar.

Fill in the online application form.

Upload scanned copies of your documents.

Submit and download the acknowledgment slip.

Some states offer mobile apps for this service.

Verification Process

Authorities verify submitted details and documents.

Field verification may be conducted.

Officials may cross-check with community records.

Issuance of Certificate

Generally issued within 7 to 21 working days

Downloadable online (for digital applicants)

Or collected from the office (for offline applicants)

Format & Validity

Typical Certificate Contains:

Applicant’s name

Father’s name

Caste and Sub-caste

Religion

Issuing authority’s seal and signature

Validity:

SC/ST certificates are usually valid for life.

OBC certificates may require periodic renewal, depending on income limits.

Popular State Portals

State	Portal Name	Website
Telangana	MeeSeva	https://ts.meeseva.telangana.gov.in
Andhra Pradesh	AP MeeSeva	https://ap.meeseva.gov.in
Karnataka	Seva Sindhu	https://sevasindhu.karnataka.gov.in
Tamil Nadu	TNeGA	https://www.tnesevai.tn.gov.in
Maharashtra	MahaOnline	https://aaplesarkar.mahaonline.gov.in
Delhi	e-District Delhi	https://edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in

Getting a caste certificate in India has become much easier with online platforms and streamlined processes. Whether you're applying for school admissions, government jobs, or welfare schemes, this document is essential if you belong to a reserved category. Be sure to gather all required documents and follow the application process as per your state’s guidelines. With a little preparation, you can complete the process smoothly and access the benefits you're eligible for.