Unequal Land Distribution and Car Ownership in Telangana: Inside the Caste Survey

The Telangana caste survey reveals significant disparities in land ownership, with the Reddy community holding the most land relative to their population. The report highlights economic inequality through the lens of car ownership, showing higher ownership among Brahmins and general castes compared to marginalized communities.

The recently released Telangana caste survey unveils stark disparities in land and car ownership across various communities. Reddys, constituting 4.8% of the population, own 13.5% of the state’s land, the highest among all communities. The data underscores the historical advantages that have led to this concentration of land ownership.

Additionally, the survey highlights economic disparities, revealing a significant divide in car ownership. Brahmin households have the highest car ownership rates at 16.4%, over five times the state average. In stark contrast, marginalized communities such as ST Kolams show car ownership rates as low as 0.2%.

Referred to as the 'caste survey,' the Telangana Socio-Economic, Educational, Employment, Political and Caste (SEEEPC) Survey-2024 captures the socio-economic health of 3.55 crore people in Telangana. The findings provide a detailed insight into the inequalities persisting in land and economic assets across different caste groups.