EWS quota for Brahmins and other general-category families: who qualifies and how to apply
Since 2019, the Constitution allows up to 10% reservation for economically weaker sections (EWS) who are not covered by SC, ST or OBC reservation. This includes poorer Brahmin and other general-category families. For central government jobs, family income must be below ₹8 lakh a year and the family must be within the land and property limits. The Supreme Court upheld this quota in November 2022.
Who counts as “family”
For the EWS test, the family means you, your parents, your brothers and sisters below 18, your spouse and your children below 18. The income and property of all of them are added together, even if you live separately from your parents.
What income is counted
Gross income from all sources is counted, not just taxable income: salary, farming, business, profession and pension. It is the income of the financial year before the year you apply.
Property rules
Property is added up across all places. If your family owns 5 acres or more of agricultural land, a flat of 1,000 sq ft or more, or a residential plot above the limit, you cannot use the EWS quota, even if your income is low.
Central and state rules can differ
These limits are for central government jobs and central institutions. Many states run their own EWS rules for state jobs and colleges, and some use different limits. Always check the notice of the exam or admission you are applying for.
Key facts
| Law | 103rd Constitutional Amendment, 2019 (Articles 15(6) and 16(6)) |
|---|---|
| Quota | Up to 10% in central government jobs and education |
| Who can apply | People not covered by SC, ST or OBC (central list) reservation |
| Income limit | Family gross income below ₹8 lakh a year, from all sources |
| Land limit | Family should not own 5 acres or more of agricultural land |
| Home limits | No flat of 1,000 sq ft or more; residential plot under 100 sq yards in notified municipalities, under 200 sq yards elsewhere |
| Certificate | Income and Asset Certificate from a Tehsildar or higher officer |
| Upheld by | Supreme Court, Janhit Abhiyan v. Union of India, 7 November 2022 |
Steps
- Check that your community is not in the SC, ST or central OBC list
- Add up your family’s gross income for the last financial year
- Check your family’s land, flat and plot sizes against the limits
- Apply to your Tehsildar or SDM office for the Income and Asset Certificate
- Make sure the certificate mentions the correct financial year and is valid on the last date of your application
Questions
Can a Brahmin get reservation?
Yes, through the EWS quota, if the family meets the income and property limits. The EWS quota is open to every community not covered by SC, ST or OBC reservation.
Is there an age relaxation for EWS in central jobs?
No. Central government rules give EWS candidates the same age limit and number of attempts as the general category.
How long is the certificate valid?
It is issued for one year, based on the previous financial year’s income. Get a fresh certificate when your exam or admission asks for a newer one.
This guide is general information, not legal advice for your situation. Talk to an advocate before acting.