KATHMANDU, Feb 26: The government has listed 92 various caste groups under the Madhesi category to provide them reservations in public service and education, Ujyaalo FM said. From now onwards, members of the groups in the list will not have to visit the District Administration Office for verification as Madhesis, according to Minister for Law, Justice and CA Affairs Minister Dev Gurung said. A cabinet meeting on February 3 had listed the caste groups. The recent definition for Madhesi excludes people of hills origin residing in the Tarai and they will not enjoy the benefits as Madhesi people. Minister Gurung said anyone trying to take advantage of the government provision by changing their surname will face government action. Gurung said Shah and Sah sound similar but the former is of hills origin and the latter is of Tarai origin and they can be distinguished from their physical features and tongue. The 92 caste groups include Bote, Danuwar, Darai, Kumal, Majhi, Raji, Tharu, Baniya, Bhumihar, Brahman, Badhai, Sutihar, Chamar, Harijan, Dhobi, Batar, Dushadh, Paswan, Halawai, Dom, Kanu, Mehettar, Tatma, Ganajain, Kayastha, Barai, Bin, Chidimar, Kahar, Dhuniya, Kamar, Lodh, Kewat, Kawarath, Khatri, Kumhar, Mali, Kurmi, Shikari, Kushwaha, Rauniyar, Malah, Nishad, Rastogi, Mushahar and Kathbaniya among others.
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