Following the central government's decision on caste census, the need for a caste certificate has become even more crucial. Now, you can easily apply for a caste certificate from the comfort of your home by following a few simple steps. In today's digital age, there's no need to visit government offices anymore. If you need to obtain a Caste Certificate, you can easily get it online from home.
This certificate is particularly important for government jobs, scholarships, reservation benefits, and various competitive examinations. Now that the central government has approved the caste census, this certificate has become even more essential. Let's understand the complete process of how you can obtain a caste certificate online, the required documents, and the website to apply.
Why is a Caste Certificate Necessary?
A caste certificate indicates your caste or community affiliation. This document plays a vital role in enabling individuals belonging to reserved categories like SC (Scheduled Caste), ST (Scheduled Tribe), and OBC (Other Backward Class) to avail the benefits of government schemes. Without it, you may be deprived of several benefits, such as:
- Reservation benefits in government jobs
- Applying for scholarships
- Priority in government schemes
- Discounts on bank loans
- Quota in college admissions
How to Obtain a Caste Certificate Online?
Each state government has launched its own official website through which people can obtain caste certificates online. This involves following a few simple steps:
1. Visit the State Website
To obtain a caste certificate, you must first visit your state's official e-District website. Each state has its own website where you can apply online. For example, the websites for Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Delhi are edistrict.up.gov.in, serviceonline.bihar.gov.in, and edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in, respectively. If you don't know your state's website address, you can go to the Indian government website, services.india.gov.in, and type 'Caste Certificate' in the search box. This will provide you with links to online application portals for caste certificates in your state, allowing you to easily apply.
2. Register as a New User
If you are applying for a caste certificate for the first time, you must first register as a 'New User'. To do this, go to the website and select the 'New User Registration' option. Then, you will need to fill in essential information such as your name, address, mobile number, email ID, and Aadhaar number. After this information is entered, an OTP (One Time Password) will be sent to your mobile number. Verify this OTP by entering it in the designated space on the website. Afterward, create an ID and password, which you will use to log in. Use this ID and password to log in to the portal and complete the application process.
3. Fill out the Application Form
After registration, log in to the portal and go to the Caste Certificate section. You will find an application form to fill out. The form requires your full name, father's name, permanent address, and caste details. You will also need to provide information about your educational background and social status. Fill in all information carefully and accurately to ensure your application is processed correctly. Incorrect information may delay or reject your application.
4. Upload Required Documents
When applying for a caste certificate, you must scan and upload some essential documents. These include an Aadhaar card (for identification), PAN card or voter ID (identification), residence proof (proving your state of residence), and a passport-size photograph. If you have a caste certificate of a family member, you can upload that as well. It's crucial to accurately scan and upload these documents, as they verify your identity and residence. Ensure the documents are clear and in the correct format to avoid any issues in the application process.
5. Submit the Form and Keep the Application Number Safe
After filling in all the information and uploading the necessary documents, submit the form. Upon submission, you will receive an application number. This number is very important, so keep it in a safe place. In the future, if you want to check the status of your caste certificate, you can easily do so using this application number. The application number will provide information about the application's status, such as when your certificate will be ready or if any further information is required.
How Long Does it Take to Receive the Caste Certificate?
The time taken to receive a caste certificate may vary slightly from state to state, but generally, your certificate is ready within 7 to 15 days. You can download it from the same portal where you applied. Additionally, some states make the certificate available on the DigiLocker app, allowing you to easily view and download it on your mobile or computer. Therefore, you should receive your certificate within this timeframe after applying.
Mobile App Application
If you don't have a computer, you can apply for a caste certificate through mobile apps. Many states have launched mobile apps like eDistrict App and eMitra App, which allow you to easily complete the application process from home. Through these apps, you can fill out the form, upload documents, and check your application status.
How to Download the Caste Certificate
To download the caste certificate, first log in to the portal. Then, you will find a "Download Certificate" option; click on it. Enter your application number or login details. Upon entering the correct information, your Caste Certificate will appear in PDF format. You can download and print it as needed. You can use this certificate for government jobs, scholarships, or reservation in other government services.
