To exclude socially advanced persons/sections or the "creamy layer" from getting reservation under the other backward classes (OBC) quota, the cabinet Thursday increased the income criterion from Rs.4.5 lakh per annum to Rs.6 lakh per annum.
"The increase in the income limit to exclude the 'creamy layer' is in keeping with the increase in the Consumer Price Index and would enable more persons to take advantage of reservation benefits extended to OBCs in government services and admission to central educational institutions," an official statement said.
"This would bring about equity and greater inclusiveness in society," it added.