EPW Engage
Policy framework or directive — a strategic document setting direction, principles, and objectives for governance. Guides the design of schemes, legislation, and implementation strategies.
Summary
In view of the recent attacks on writer Kancha Ilaiah, we are republishing his 1996 article which was published as a Commentary in on 15 Jun, 1996 in Vol. 31, Issue No. 24 of the EPW. On one hand the BJP defines SC, OBC castes as Hindus, and on the other by banning beef denies them their age-old food habits. If beef is banned it will he the beginning of the end of the country's multiculturalism.
Key Facts
Type Policy
Source Economic and Political Weekly
Published Sunday, 8 March 2026
Affected Population ~350 million BPL population, 140 million elderly
Key Numbers
PM-JAY: 55 crore beneficiaries
MGNREGA: Rs 86,000 crore annual outlay
NSAP pensions: 3 crore beneficiaries
Rs 15,000 crore for Digital India initiatives
Key Authorities
Key Stakeholders
Government Context
NDA III BJP-led NDA
Left Centre Right