Pune, May 1 -- Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar unfurled the national flag at the Pune City Police Headquarters Parade Ground on the occasion of Maharashtra's 65th Foundation Day.

Speaking to reporters after the event, Pawar addressed the inclusion of a caste census in the national census.

Pawar said, "The demand for caste-based census has been longstanding, as it helps in understanding the composition of different sections of society and aids in policy-making decisions. Considering this, the Union Cabinet has made the decision. Personally, at the state government and NCP levels, I extend my gratitude to Prime Minister Modi, Amit Shah, and the entire Cabinet for this decision. The opposition has always argued that if a good ...