Karnataka Introduces Revised Caste Certificate System
The Karnataka revenue department has unveiled significant changes to the process of issuing Scheduled Caste (SC) certificates, specifically affecting three major communities in the state. This policy update, announced on November 9, 2025, introduces a crucial provision that allows individuals from certain communities to choose their classification when their original caste details are unknown.
Who is Affected by the New Rules?
The revised policy specifically targets members of the Adi Karnataka, Adi Dravida, and Adi Andhra communities – often abbreviated as AK, AD, and AA respectively. According to the department's notification, individuals from these communities who cannot determine their original caste now have two distinct options available to them.
These individuals can register themselves under either Group A or Group B categories. However, the revenue department has emphasized that the selection made by applicants will be considered final, meaning once the choice is made and submitted, it cannot be changed or revised at a later date.
Understanding the Implications
This policy clarification comes as an important development for thousands of residents across Karnataka who belong to these communities. The department's statement makes it clear that individuals must exercise careful consideration before making their selection between the two available groups.
The announcement, made through an official release dated November 9, 2025, represents the state government's effort to streamline the caste certificate issuance process while providing clarity for applicants with incomplete ancestral records. This move is expected to simplify administrative procedures while ensuring that community members can access the benefits and reservations entitled to them under state and central government schemes.
As the Karnataka revenue department implements these changes, community members are advised to thoroughly understand the implications of their choice between Group A and Group B before submitting their applications for caste certificates.
