---
title: "Article 342A: Backward Classes Explained | Model Diplomat"
description: "Article 342A allows the President to identify Socially and Educationally Backward Classes in consultation with State Governors, impacting OBC lists."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/article-342a-socially-and-educationally-backward-classes"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Article 342A of the Indian Constitution authorises the President to notify, in consultation with each State's Governor, the Socially and Educationally Backward Classes for that State or Union Territory.
- Why was Article 342A inserted in 2018 if Articles 15(4) and 16(4) already enabled OBC reservation?
- Did Article 342A take away States' power to identify their own backward classes?
- How does Article 342A differ from Article 340?
- Can the President alter an Article 342A notification later by executive order?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In February 2024, the Maharashtra Assembly enacted a 10 per cent Maratha reservation under State SEBC powers preserved by Article 342A's 105th Amendment, after the 2021 Supreme Court ruling had invalidated the earlier quota.

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