Reservation in India: Its Type, Arguments in Favour and Against Reservation System, Possible Solutions and Model of Implementation

Abstract

Reservation in India is a form of affirmative action designed to improve the well being of perceived backward and underrepresented communities in India. Enrolment in educational institutions and job placements are reserved based on a variety of criteria like caste, gender, religion etc. Quota system is definitely not going to uplift the really backward people. In this article, various arguments in favour and against reservation are described in the tabulated form. Also, possible solutions to most of shortcomings of the existing reservation policies are discussed, without compromising the interests of either those who are enjoying protection under reservation or those who are not covered through reservation. Moreover, two alternative proposals with model of implementation are advocated for handling reservation-related issue in the country. It can expedite the pace of empowerment of weaker sections by gently prodding them to improve their performance level. It can also gradually diminish the intensity of reservation-related conflicts among various stake holders. Only thereafter dream of creating real equality among all citizens of the country can be materialised.