What Does EWS Stand For in Hindi?
In Hindi, EWS stands for “आर्थिक रूप से कमजोर वर्ग” which translates to Economically Weaker Section.
Understanding EWS in India
In the context of India, the term EWS has gained significant importance in recent years, especially in the realms of education and employment. Let’s delve deeper into what EWS stands for, who falls under this category, the government initiatives to uplift this section, and the impact it has on society.
What is EWS?
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Definition: EWS refers to the Economically Weaker Section, denoting a category of individuals or families who belong to the lower strata of the economic hierarchy and have limited access to basic resources and opportunities.
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Criteria: The criteria to qualify as EWS may vary based on different government schemes and policies. However, in general, individuals with an annual household income below a certain threshold are categorized under EWS.
EWS Quota in India
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Reservation: The EWS category is also associated with the provision of reservation in educational institutions and government jobs. A certain percentage of seats are reserved for EWS candidates to ensure their representation and inclusion.
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10% Quota: In 2019, the Indian government introduced a landmark decision to provide a 10% quota for economically weaker sections among the general category candidates in educational institutions and public employment.
Government Initiatives for EWS
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Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY): Under this scheme, the government aims to provide affordable housing to the EWS and Low-Income Group (LIG) segments of society by offering credit-linked subsidies.
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Education Schemes: Various scholarships and educational schemes are launched to support the education of EWS students, ensuring equal opportunities for their academic growth.
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Skill Development Programs: Skill development initiatives are crucial to empower the EWS community by enhancing their employability and income-earning potential.
Impact of EWS Quota
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Social Inclusion: The EWS quota promotes social inclusion by giving marginalized sections of society an equal platform to compete and excel in various fields.
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Empowerment: By providing reservations and benefits, the EWS quota empowers individuals from economically weaker backgrounds to break the cycle of poverty and strive for a better quality of life.
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Diversity: Promoting diversity in educational institutions and workplaces enriches the overall environment and encourages a more holistic growth perspective.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about EWS:
Q1. Who qualifies as EWS in India?
A1. Individuals or families with an annual household income below the specified threshold are typically classified under the Economically Weaker Section in India.
Q2. What benefits do EWS candidates receive under the quota system?
A2. EWS candidates are eligible for reserved seats in educational institutions and government jobs, along with certain welfare schemes and subsidies.
Q3. How can EWS individuals avail government schemes and benefits?
A3. EWS individuals can apply for various government schemes through designated channels, such as online portals or government offices, with the necessary documentation.
Q4. Are there any specific educational scholarships for EWS students in India?
A4. Yes, the government and various private organizations offer scholarships specifically tailored for EWS students to support their education and skill development.
Q5. How does the EWS reservation impact the overall merit-based selection process?
A5. The EWS reservation ensures a balance between merit and representation, providing opportunities for deserving candidates from economically weaker backgrounds.
By understanding the significance of EWS and the initiatives taken to uplift this section, we pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable society where every individual has the chance to prosper and contribute towards the nation’s development.