What is the meaning of creamy layer certificate?

A creamy layer certificate is an official document issued by government authorities in India to identify individuals from the Other Backward Classes (OBC) who are relatively better off and thus excluded from certain affirmative action benefits. It serves to distinguish between the economically and socially disadvantaged segments of the OBC community and those who have gained a higher social and economic status. This certificate is often required for educational admissions and government job reservations to ensure that benefits reach the intended beneficiaries.