Which was the first state to implement 10% reservation in government jobs and higher education for Economically Weaker Sections?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is: (D) Gujarat.

Gujarat became the first state to implement a 10% reservation in government jobs and higher education for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) of society in 2019.

This move was in line with the 10% reservation for EWS that was introduced by the Indian government in 2019 under the 103rd Constitutional Amendment at the national level, which was later adopted by states.

• The EWS quota is aimed at helping individuals from economically disadvantaged sections, particularly those who do not fall under the existing reservation categories (like Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes).

Here's a breakdown of who can benefit under EWS:

Eligibility Criteria:

• Family Income: The family's annual income must be less than ₹8 lakhs.
• Land Ownership:
  • Rural Areas: Should not own agricultural land exceeding 5 acres.
  • Urban Areas:
    • Should not own a residential plot exceeding 100 square yards in a notified municipality area.
    • Should not own a residential plot exceeding 200 square yards in a non-notified municipality area.
• Residential Property: Should not own a residential flat exceeding 1000 square feet.
• General Category: You must belong to the general category and not be covered under any other reservation category (SC, ST, OBC).