This paper addresses two common critiques against ethnic quotas for Other Backward Classes (OBC) in Indian education and hiring.

Methodology: The study employs difference-in-difference and triple difference designs, leveraging the gradual implementation of OBC quotas.

Key Results: Quotas resulted in small but notable increases in educational attainment among eligible age cohorts within OBC groups. Regarding government employment benefits, findings were mixed—while there was an increase, it might reflect broader social/political trends rather than solely quota effects.

Wider Impact & Nuances: Benefits extended even to less affluent OBC subgroups (though not the poorest). Crucially, quotas increased interactions between uneducated individuals from marginalized backgrounds and government officials—a finding revealed by this nuanced analysis.

Affirmative action in India was associated with small educational gains but uneven employment outcomes.