Government of India
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
Rajya Sabha

Unstarred Question No-516
Answered on – 21.07.2016

516 . Dr. R. Lakshmanan

(a) whether any proposal is pending with Government to increase the income limit for OBC non-Creamy Layer (OBCNCL) from existing 6 lakhs per annum to 8 lakhs per annum; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER

(a): A proposal to enhance the income ceiling for Other Backward Classes non-Creamy Layer, is presently under consideration of the Government.

(b): The income criterion among creamy layer for Other Backward Classes was first notified at Rs. 1.00 lakh per annum in September, 1993. This was enhanced to Rs. 2.5 lakh in March, 2004 and thereafter to Rs. 4.5 lakh in October, 2008 and Rs. 6.00 lakh in May, 2013. The National Commission for Backward Classes has recommended in 2015 modifications in the various factors for determining of Creamy Layer among OBCs, including enhancement of present limit. The matter has been examined in the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment in consultation with other Ministries/Departments concerned, for taking a view on the enhancement of income ceiling. The level of enhancement and the revised income ceiling will be notified by the Government in due course, after approval of the Cabinet.