The Saini caste, a prominent community in North India, exhibits a diverse population distribution across different states and union territories. Let’s delve into the regional specifics to understand the demographic landscape of the Saini community.
Table of Contents
1. Delhi
Commencing with the National Capital Territory of Delhi, Sainis form a relatively smaller population compared to other communities. Concentrated primarily at the Sonipat border, they inhabit around 25–30 villages, totaling an estimated 30,000–50,000 individuals. The Saini presence in Delhi is characterized by a mix of farming communities and those engaged in modern professions and business.
2. Jammu and Kashmir
In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Sainis are settled along the international borders of Jammu and Pakistan. With approximately 35–40 villages, their population stands at around 70,000–75,000. The majority of Sainis in this region are engaged in agriculture, with notable representation in the army.
3. Himachal Pradesh
While specific population data for Himachal Pradesh is unavailable, Sainis in this state are concentrated along the borders of Punjab, primarily as Punjabi speakers. An estimated 55–60 villages in the Punjab-bordering areas are home to the Saini community in Himachal Pradesh.
4. Punjab
Punjab emerges as a stronghold for the Saini population, constituting around 10–15% of the state’s total population. As the second-largest landowning caste in Punjab, Sainis wield significant influence in 5–7 districts, including Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Gurdaspur, Ropar, and Nawanshahr. They are the dominant community in Upper Punjab and also extend their influence into Patiala district at the borders of Haryana.
5. Haryana
In Haryana, Sainis rank as the third-largest landowning farming community after Jats and Yadavs. Making up approximately 7–8% of the state’s population, they are most concentrated in North Haryana, including districts like Kurukshetra, Ambala, Panchkula, and Yamunanagar. Sainis also have a presence in other districts like Hisar, Jind, Rohtak, Narnaul, Karnal, and Kaithal.
6. Uttarakhand
In Uttarakhand, Sainis are prevalent in Haridwar and other bordering districts of Uttar Pradesh. With a significant presence in Haridwar, Roorkee, and Dehradun, they are recognized as farmers and speakers of both Khari Boli (Kauravi) and Haryanvi.
7. Uttar Pradesh
Sainis in Uttar Pradesh constitute a dominant farming community in West UP, playing a crucial political role on approximately 10–12 seats. Their population share in Uttar Pradesh stands at 8.5%.
These population estimates are based on available sources and references, providing insights into the regional distribution and significance of the Saini caste across North India.