Eligibility, Impact and Criticisms of Economically Weaker Section (EWS)

The Economic Weaker Section refers to individuals or groups of people who have a lower standard of living, limited access to resources, and less economic power compared to the general population. These individuals or groups may be marginalized or disadvantaged due to factors such as poverty, low levels of education, or discrimination. In many countries, policies and programs are in place to address the needs of the economically weaker section and to promote greater economic equality. They typically have low incomes, limited access to education and employment opportunities, and poor living conditions. They may also face discrimination and social exclusion based on their economic status. In India, the term “economically weaker section” (EWS) is used to refer to people who belong to lower-income groups and are eligible for government benefits and affirmative action programs. In this article, we will be discussing the features, characteristics, history, Impact, etc.

History of EWS (Economically Weaker Section)

The history of the economically weaker section is closely tied to the history of economic inequality and social marginalization. Throughout history, certain groups of people have been disadvantaged economically due to factors such as race, caste, and gender. In many countries, the economically weaker section has traditionally been made up of marginalized groups such as indigenous peoples, ethnic minorities, and lower castes. These groups have often been denied access to resources and opportunities due to discrimination and social prejudice.

In the 19th century, with the rise of industrialization and capitalism, the working class and urban poor also emerged as a significantly economically weaker section. These groups were often subjected to poor working conditions, low wages, and limited opportunities for advancement. In the 20th century, many governments around the world began to introduce policies and programs aimed at reducing economic inequality and addressing the needs of the economically weaker section. These included measures such as progressive taxation, social welfare programs, and affirmative action policies.

In recent years, the economically weaker section has become an increasingly important focus of policymakers and social activists around the world, as rising income inequality and the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by these individuals and communities. It’s important to note that the history of the economically weaker section is complex and varies across countries and regions and that the group of people considered as economically weaker section also changes over time and context.

Criteria and Eligibility of EWS (Economically Weaker Section)

• Income: This includes a person’s earned income (from employment, self-employment, or other sources), as well as any unearned income (such as welfare benefits, Social Security, or other government assistance). Income limits are often set for different programs, and a person’s income must fall below a certain threshold in order to be eligible for the benefit.
• Assets: This includes a person’s savings, investments, property, and other assets. Some programs may have limits on the value of assets a person can have and still be eligible for the benefit.
• Employment status: A person’s employment status, such as whether they are employed, unemployed, or underemployed, can be a factor in determining eligibility for specific programs.
• Family size and composition: A person’s family size and composition, such as the number of dependents they have and whether they are a single parent, can also be considered when determining eligibility for specific programs.
• Housing status: A person’s housing status, such as whether they own or rent their home, can also be considered when determining eligibility for certain programs.
• Health or disability status: A person’s health or disability status can be a factor in determining eligibility for certain programs, such as Medicaid or disability benefits.\
• Education level: A person’s education level can be a factor in determining eligibility for specific programs, such as financial aid for college.

Constitutional Amendment Related to EWS

The Constitutional amendment related to EWS (Economically Weaker Sections) in India is the 103rd Amendment Act, which was passed by the Parliament in January 2019 and came into effect on February 14, 2019. Here are some key features of the amendment:

1. Introduction of 10% reservation: The 103rd Amendment Act provides for a 10% reservation in government jobs and educational institutions for individuals belonging to the EWS category.
2. Eligibility criteria: To be eligible for the EWS reservation, an individual must belong to a family with an annual income of less than Rs. 8 lakhs, and must not belong to any existing reserved categories such as SC, ST, and OBC.
3. Addition to Articles 15 and 16: The amendment adds clauses to Articles 15 and 16 of the Indian Constitution to provide for the EWS reservation. These clauses state that the reservation will be in addition to the existing reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs.
4. The challenge to the amendment: The amendment was challenged in the Supreme Court of India, but the court upheld its constitutional validity in 2020.
5. Implementation: The implementation of the EWS reservation has been gradual, with some states and institutions initially facing challenges in implementing the new quota. However, the reservation has now been implemented in most states and union territories.

Schemes and Benefits of EWS (Economically Weaker Section) 

There are a variety of government schemes and benefits available to individuals and families who fall into the category of economic and social status (EWS). Some examples include:

• Public Assistance: This is a general term for government benefits that provide financial assistance to individuals and families with low incomes. Examples include Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, also known as food stamps), and Medicaid.
• Affordable Housing: The government provides affordable housing options to low-income individuals and families through programs such as Section 8 housing vouchers, public housing, and community development block grants.
• Education and Training: The government provides education and training programs to low-income individuals and families through programs such as Head Start, Pell Grants, and Job Corps.
• Child Care Assistance: The government provides child care assistance to low-income families through programs such as the Child Care and Development Block Grant.
• Energy Assistance: The government provides energy assistance to low-income individuals and families through programs such as the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Weatherization Assistance Program.
• Health Care: The government provides health care assistance to low-income individuals and families through programs such as Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Impact of EWS Classification

The classification of individuals and families as falling into the category of economic and social status (EWS) can have a significant impact on their lives. The main impact of the EWS classification is that it determines the eligibility for various government schemes and benefits that are intended to provide financial and social assistance to those in need.

Positive Impact of EWS Classification

EWS classification can provide access to a variety of government programs and benefits that can help individuals and families improve their economic and social well-being. These programs can provide financial assistance, affordable housing, education and training opportunities, child care assistance, energy assistance, and health care.

Access to these programs can help individuals and families to meet their basic needs and improve their overall quality of life.

Negative Impact of EWS Classification

However, the process of determining EWS status can be complex and time-consuming, and individuals and families may face barriers to accessing the benefits to which they are entitled.

There may also be a social stigma associated with being classified as EWS, which can lead to discrimination and marginalization.

EWS classification can also be subject to change, which can lead to uncertainty and instability for individuals and families.

Overall, while EWS classification can provide access to important government programs and benefits, it is essential that the process of determining EWS status is fair, transparent, and easily accessible. Additionally, efforts should be made to reduce the negative impact of EWS classification on individuals and families, such as reducing the social stigma associated with it and ensuring that benefits are sufficient to meet the needs of those who are eligible.

Criticisms of the EWS Classification System

• Lack of transparency and fairness in the process of determining EWS status: Some critics argue that the process of determining EWS status is not transparent or fair and that individuals and families may face barriers in accessing the benefits to which they are entitled.
• Lack of flexibility in the system: The EWS classification system is often based on fixed income and asset thresholds, which can be inflexible and may not take into account the specific circumstances of individual families or communities. This can lead to people who are in need being excluded from benefits.
• Insufficient benefits: Some critics argue that the benefits provided to those classified as EWS are not sufficient to meet their needs and improve their overall quality of life.
• Discriminatory impact: EWS classification can lead to discrimination and marginalization of individuals and families who are classified as EWS, which can further exacerbate their economic and social challenges.
• Complexity: The system can be complex to understand and navigate, making it difficult for eligible individuals and families to access benefits.
• Lack of accountability: Some critics argue that there is a lack of accountability in the system, with insufficient oversight and monitoring to ensure that benefits are reaching those who are most in need.