What is an OBC Certificate & How to Make One?

In India, an OBC or Other Backward Classes certificate offers several advantages. It grants access to various government schemes designed to benefit individuals in this category.

This certificate supports underprivileged individuals by providing reservations in competitive examinations, government employment, and access to government subsidies. 

Let’s explore the full form of the OBC certificate, its meaning, and its importance.

OBC stands for Other Backward Class. In India, this category is used to classify socially and educationally disadvantaged communities, making them eligible for affirmative action and reservation benefits.

The OBC certificate was first introduced in 1993 by former Prime Minister V.P. Singh to benefit individuals categorised under Other Backward Classes specifically. It is legally recognised under Article 16(4) of the Indian Constitution and helps address systemic inequalities.

The certificate enables access to reservations in education, employment, and government schemes. With it, many may experience these benefits, making it essential to understand the eligibility and process for obtaining the certificate.

As we know, holding an OBC certificate offers numerous benefits. However, only some are eligible to obtain the certificate. The Government of India has defined eligibility criteria in its report.  Currently, to be eligible for the OBC certificate, you must meet the following criteria:

• Must be an Indian citizen.

• Should be an ordinary resident at the current address.

• The family’s annual income must be less than ₹8 lakh, including income from house property, business, and land.

• Must be a permanent resident of the state.

• The family must belong to the OBC community as specified in the government list.

Once you fit the eligibility criteria, if you want to apply for an OBC certificate, the next step is to ensure the availability of your documents. Below are the few documents required to claim an OBC certificate:

• Application form 

• Copy of Aadhar Card/PAN card/ Voter ID

• Electric bills/ Passport for proof of address

• Passport sized photograph

• Income certificate

• Caste certificate of parents, if applicable

• Copy of Ration Card 

• Caste report/ Religion report

• Self-declaration form (ensures that the information provided by you is authentic)

If your documents are verified by the government officials at the Tehsildar office, you may get an update on when you can collect the certificate.

Here is a complete guide to obtaining the OBC certificate online:

Step 1: Navigate to your state’s official website to find the OBC certificate application page. For instance, residents of Maharashtra can visit the Aaple Sarkar portal.

Step 2: If required, create an account to log in. Locate the option to access or download the OBC certificate application form.

Step 3: Go to the portal's profile section and select the OBC certificate application from the list of available services.

Step 4: Download the application form from the relevant section of the website. You may find it via a direct link on the homepage or in a related category.

Step 5: Open the form and fill in your personal details, including your name, your parents’ names, your date of birth, your address, your contact number, and your PAN details.

Step 6: If available, choose your preferred language (e.g., English or Hindi) and complete the form accordingly.

Step 7: Follow the website's instructions to upload all required documents, such as proof of identity and address.

Step 8: After reviewing all entered details and uploaded documents, submit the application online. A confirmation message will appear upon successful submission.

Here is a complete guide to obtaining the OBC certificate offline:

Step 1: Visit your local SETU/CSC centre, Tehsil office, or SDM office. These authorities are responsible for issuing OBC certificates.

Step 2: Request the relevant application form to obtain an OBC certificate.

Step 3: Complete the form by filling in all the mandatory fields with accurate details.

Step 4: If the applicant’s father is deceased, they should provide their nearest relative’s OBC certificate for verification.

Step 5: Specify the type of OBC certificate required and apply accordingly.

Step 6: If the applicant has previously resided in a different state, they must include the relevant details in the form.

Step 7: Sign a self-declaration statement to confirm the authenticity of the provided information.

Step 8: Attach the required documents and passport-size colour photographs to the application form and submit it to the appropriate authority.

The validity of OBC certificates differs depending on the issuance authority. Both the central and state governments issue OBC certificates. The one issued by the state government is not considered valid in other states, whereas the central government OBC certificate is valid all over India.

The OBC certificate issued by the central government is valid for one year from the date of issuance. If the certificate is issued by a state authority or the state government, it remains valid for three years from the date of issuance.

You can apply for a renewal once the certificate's tenure period expires. The renewal process is hassle-free and available both online and offline.

In India, the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) is responsible for issuing OBC certificates at the central level. State governments also issue OBC certificates, which are valid within their respective states.

Designated authorities manage the process of verification and issuance of caste certificates, and it may vary from state to state. These authorities typically include:

• Tehsildar Office

• SDM (Sub-Divisional Magistrate)

• DM (District Magistrate)

• Revenue Officers

The OBC certificate is a crucial document that enables members of the OBC community to access various government benefits and opportunities. Obtaining an OBC certificate is the first step to avail of these advantages. Whether applying online or offline, ensure you provide accurate information to streamline the documentation process and avoid delays.