Karnataka School Holiday Announced for Caste Survey Completion

Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has declared a school holiday from October 8 to 18 to allow teachers to complete a crucial caste survey. This survey, involving 1.6 lakh participants, aims to assess the socio-economic and educational status of the population. Despite initial plans for completion by October 7, delays in various districts necessitated an extension. The CM emphasized the importance of participation, warning of disciplinary actions against non-compliant teachers. The government is investing ₹420 crore in this initiative, highlighting its significance for future policy formulation. Read on for more details about the survey's progress and implications.

By Ambika Singh Oct 8, 2025, 21:31 IST

Karnataka Chief Minister Declares School Break

Karnataka's Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah, has declared a school holiday from October 8 to October 18. This decision was made to allow teachers to finish the caste survey, which involves 1.6 lakh participants, including 1.2 lakh teachers and 40,000 government staff.

The CM's announcement pertains to both government and government-aided schools, enabling educators involved in the caste survey to complete their tasks. Although the survey commenced on September 22 and was initially set to conclude on October 7, delays in various districts prompted the extension.

Details from CM Siddaramaiah

During a press briefing following a meeting with officials, CM Siddaramaiah noted that while some districts are nearing completion, others are lagging. For instance, Koppal district has achieved 97% completion, whereas Udupi and Dakshina Kannada have completed 63% and 60%, respectively. The overall progress across Karnataka has not met expectations.

Survey Duration Extension

Siddaramaiah indicated that only 34% of the survey is finished in Bengaluru, with 6,700 teachers currently involved. The Karnataka Primary and Secondary School Teachers' Association, along with Congress Legislative Council member Puttanna, requested additional time for completion. The CM stated, "The teachers' association informed me that at least 10 more days are needed to finalize the survey. Consequently, the Education Department, in consultation with the Karnataka State Backward Classes Commission, issued the holiday order."

Participation of Teachers

The Chief Minister confirmed that the survey encompasses 1.6 lakh individuals, including 1.2 lakh teachers and 40,000 other government employees. He mentioned that the survey is expected to take eight working days and conclude by October 18. Teachers involved in mid-term examinations will be exempt from participating in the survey.

Consequences for Non-Participation

Additionally, the CM announced a compensation of ₹20 lakh for three employees who tragically lost their lives during the survey. He warned that disciplinary measures would be enforced against teachers and government employees who intentionally avoid participating. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who accompanied Siddaramaiah, stated that special classes would be arranged to ensure that students do not miss out on learning time, confirming that teachers have agreed to this plan.

Financial Commitment from the Government

The Karnataka government plans to allocate ₹420 crore for this survey, which aims to assess the socio-economic and educational conditions of the state's population and inform future policy-making.