The Economically Weaker Section (EWS) in India refers to individuals from the general (unreserved) category who have a family income of less than ₹8 lakh per year. This category does not include Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), or Other Backward Classes (OBC), as they already have separate reservation benefits.
To provide support to this economically disadvantaged group, the Government of India introduced a 10% reservation in education and government jobs for eligible candidates from the general category who meet the EWS criteria. This reservation is in addition to the existing reservations for SC, ST, and OBC categories.
Eligibility Criteria for EWS Reservation
The EWS reservation policy, implemented in 2019, allows individuals from the general category to avail themselves of 10% reservation in government jobs and educational institutions, provided they meet the following conditions:
- Category: The applicant must belong to the general category and should not be covered under SC, ST, or OBC reservations.
- Income Limit: The annual family income must be less than ₹8 lakh from all sources, including salary, business, agriculture, and other earnings.
- Land Ownership: The family should not own agricultural land exceeding 5 acres.
- Residential Property:
- The family must not own a residential flat of more than 1,000 square feet.
- If the property is in a municipality, the area of the residential plot should not exceed 100 square yards.
- In non-municipal areas, the residential plot should not exceed 200 square yards.
How to Apply for an EWS Certificate?
To avail of the EWS reservation benefits, applicants must obtain an EWS certificate, which serves as proof of eligibility. The certificate can be acquired from the Tehsildar, District Magistrate, Collector, or Revenue Officer in the applicant’s district.
Many states also offer online services to apply for an EWS certificate through their respective revenue department portals. Here’s how to apply:
- Visit the nearest revenue department office or apply through the respective state’s online portal.
- Download and fill out the EWS certificate application form.
- Attach the necessary documents (mentioned below).
- Submit the form either in person or online.
- Wait for verification and approval, after which the certificate will be issued.
Documents Required for EWS Certificate
Applicants need to provide the following documents when applying for an EWS certificate:
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Income Certificate
- Bank Statements
- Land Ownership Documents
- Domicile Certificate (Proof of Residence)
- Self-Declaration or Affidavit
Once obtained, the EWS certificate remains valid for a specific period and must be renewed as per government norms.
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