Kerala State SC Development Department

The redressel of the problems of backward communities began to receive the attention of the respective governments years before independence.  Prior to the formation of the present Kerala State the territories namely Travancore, Cochin and Malabar had their own schemes and administrative setup for this purpose.

In Travancore the work relating to the amelioration of depressed classes was started in 1923.  This work was entrusted with the Registrar of Co-operative Societies and a post of ‘Protector of Depressed Classes’ was created in 1932.  In 1937 this officer was placed under the control and supervision of the Special University Officer, who after the passing the Travancore University Regulations, became the Vice Chancellor of the new University.  In 1941, the department was taken under the direct control of the government and an officer viz.  The ‘Protector of Backward Communities’ was put in charge of the department.  The main duties of this department were, establishment of colonies, provision of wells, approach roads, common buildings, burial grounds, affording educational facilities and provision of employment to educated members.  There were 7 field officers, 2 lady welfare officers and one welfare officer to assist the Protector in the 4 field.