Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Thursday welcomed the Union Cabinet’s decision to include caste enumeration in the upcoming national census, stating that it would help understand society better and support effective policy making.

As per ANI, Pawar made these remarks after unfurling the national flag at the Pune City Police Headquarters Parade Ground on the occasion of Maharashtra’s 65th Foundation Day. Speaking to the press, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the Union Cabinet for approving the proposal.