Mains Practice Questions

Approach

• Give a brief introduction about the caste system.
• Write features of the caste system.
• Define fluid and static features of the Indian caste system.
• Write a conclusion.

Introduction

The caste system in India is a system of social stratification, and social restriction, and a basis for affirmative action in India. It exhibits both fluid and static elements due to social, economic, and historical reasons.

Body

Features of the Indian caste system:

• Caste is Innate: The caste system in India is characterized by absolute rigidity and immobility. It is the caste that determines one’s status in life.
• Hierarchical Social Structure: The caste structure of the society is a hierarchy or system of subordination held together by the relations of superiority and inferiority.

Fluid aspect of Caste Identity:

• Inter-caste Marriages: In recent decades inter-caste marriages have become more common, particularly in urban areas.
• Urbanization and Migration: Urbanization and migration to cities have created more heterogeneous and cosmopolitan environments overshadowing caste identities.
• Education and employment: Legislation like the Right to Education (RTE) and affirmative action have ensured a better educational level, as exemplified by individuals like President Ram Nath Kovind, who rose to the highest office in the country despite coming from a Scheduled caste background.

Static aspect of Caste Identity:

• Historical Roots: Caste identity in India has historical roots dating back thousands of years, and it continues to persist in the collective conscience of the masses.
• Traditional Occupations: In some rural areas, people continue to follow hereditary occupations associated with caste.
• Caste Association: Organisation based on caste still acts as a pressure group.

Conclusion

Thus caste in India is a complex interplay of fluid and static elements. To overcome caste barriers various social awareness programmes should be carried out along with the legislative and constitutional measures.