Four points:
1. We need to define a parameter that quantifies backwardness in society. The definition of this parameter can include multiple variables such as caste, family income history, family education history and physical disability. This parameter can then be used to open up education and economic opportunities systematically for those who need an extra push. Observe that the value of this parameter, i.e. the extent of backwardness, will now vary from person to person.
2. Instead of reservations, we should use grace marks to combat backwardness. The amount of grace marks awarded to a person can depend on the extent of his/her backwardness (parameter value): 5%, 10%, 15%.
3. Jobs that directly impact human life (examples: medical and teaching) should work on pure merit. There should be absolutely no grace marks or reservations of any kind for such jobs - not even on regional considerations (example: Punjabis in Punjab, Marathis in Maharashtra, etc.)
4. Gender simply cannot be a part of this exercise at all. Else, stop all talk of gender equality. It's plain hypocrisy.
Note that this approach will also allow us to answer the question: When is someone no longer backward? Once the "backwardness parameter" dips below a cut off value, the concerned person will be deemed "forward" irrespective of caste and fully integrated into the mainstream society. This in turn will give us a handle on how effective our affirmative action program is.
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