Amity University

Name -Harshita Solanki

Institute -AISS
Course -History Hons.
Topic-Caste and Dynamics
Subject -NTCC
Instructor -Dr. Swati Shastri
 Caste.Dynamics:

Abstract –
The dynamics of the caste forms social hierarchies, access to resources and individual identity in
many societies. Trained in historical stratification systems, castes affect economic, political and
cultural interactions. It often dictates occupation, social mobility, and even interpersonal
relationships, reinforcing structural inequalities. While modernization, legal frameworks, and
affirmative action have challenged caste-based discrimination, social prejudices and systemic
barriers persist. The interaction between caste and class further complicates social mobility, as
economic success does not always transfer to caste recognition. In modern circumstances, caste
dynamics manifest in politics, education, and employment, sometimes reinforce or change
traditional hierarchies. The digital era and urbanization have created a space for resistance and
solidarity, but the discrimination of castes continues, in particular in rural and marginal
communities. Understanding the dynamics of caste requires a detailed analysis of the historical
heritage, political influences and mass movements which strive from justice and social justice.

Introduction -
The caste system in India is a social hierarchy rooted in ancient Hindu traditions, dividing society into
four varnas—Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras—along with numerous sub-castes (jatis). Over
time, this rigid system influenced social, economic, and political life. While the Constitution of India
outlawed caste-based discrimination, caste dynamics persist, shaping access to education, employment,
and politics. Affirmative action policies, such as reservations, aim to uplift historically marginalized
communities like Scheduled Castes (Dalits) and Scheduled Tribes. Urbanization, economic growth, and
social movements have challenged caste rigidity, yet caste identity continues to influence social
interactions, marriage, and electoral.

*Research question –
1) How does Caste shape daily life, social mobility and discrimination in India?
2) What are the socio-economic consequences of the caste in terms of education,
employment and income?
3) policies, constitutional laws, and positive structures exist in caste form over time?
4) How is caste expressed in media, political and public discourse?

*Significance of study-
To comprehend social hierarchies, mobility, and inequality, research on caste and its dynamics is crucial.
It sheds light on the ways in which caste affects government, work, education, and resource accessibility.
Research aids in the identification of discriminatory, resistant, and change-promoting tendencies by
examining historical and modern environments. It also helps shape policy, guaranteeing the success of
social reforms and affirmative action. Intersectionality is also clarified by researching caste dynamics,
which shows how caste-based inequality interacts with variables like gender and socioeconomic status. In
the end, research helps to create a more inclusive and just society by raising knowledge and dispelling
misconceptions.

*Scope and limitation –

Social mobility, discrimination, the effects of policies, and identity development are all included in the
scope of caste dynamics. It looks at how politics, education, and the economy have been influenced
historically and currently. Regional differences, data restrictions, and societal sensitivities are some of the
factors that make impartial analysis and generalizable conclusions difficult in a variety of dynamic
circumstances.

Literature review -
A literature review on caste and dynamics in India.:
For centuries, Kasta has been a fundamental aspect of Indian society, shaping social classes,
economic opportunities and political dynamics. Traditionally associated with Hinduism, caste
systems have influenced many aspects of life, including resources, education and access to
government structures. Scientists widely studied Casta in India, focusing on its historical origin,
social mobility, economic consequences and the role of politics in strengthening or complex
caste structures.

Historical prospects:
The origin of the caste system can be traced to ancient Hindu scriptures, especially Manusmriti,
who classified the society according to four Varns: Brahmans (priests), kshatriyas (warriors),
Vaishis (merchants) and Shudra (workers). Master Srinivas (1952) presented the concept of \
"Sanskritization, \", where the lower castes use the practices of the upper caste to improve their
social status. Nevertheless, this form of mobility is not always converted into structural changes,
since caste identities remain deeply rooted. Later studies show that economic liberalization has
created new opportunities for lower castes, but discrimination is preserved in employment and
social conditions (Deshpande, 2011).

Economic and political consequences:

The economic aspects of the castes are manifested in the possession of land, employment and
access to capital. While legal and political reforms have brought about certain progress, caste
dynamics continue to develop and demand stable efforts on social equality. Future research
should focus on the role of intersections, economic reforms and digital activities in the evolution
of caste identity.

Caste Relations: Literature's Gaps, Discussions, and Trends-

The caste system has been a subject of extensive scholarly inquiry across disciplines such as
history, sociology, anthropology, political science, and economics. While existing literature
offers deep insights into its origins, evolution, and contemporary manifestations, significant gaps,
emerging trends, and debates continue to shape academic discussions.

Gaps in literature:
1. Regional and comparative perspectives: Most literature focuses on India, in particular the
hierarchies of Hindu caste. However, caste-type structures exist in other countries in South Asia
(Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh) and in diaspora communities in South Asia. More
comparative studies between regions and crops can provide greater understanding.
2. Intersections with gender and caste: although the oppression of castes and sexes is recognized,
many studies focus on the experiences of men or deal with the problems of women as secondary.
Feminist scholarships for Dalit women remain limited, but are on the rise.
3 Economic and Globalization Perspectives: Research on caste and globalization is emerging but
remains underexplored. How neoliberal economic policies, migration, and global capitalism
influence caste dynamics needs further investigation.
4. Castes of Urban and Digital Spaces: Traditionally considered a rural phenomenon, castes work
in urban and digital spaces, including social networks and marriage websites. These new
expressions of caste require more empirical work.
5 Mental health and caste discrimination: The psychological impacts of caste-based
discrimination and violence, as well as trauma and mental health effects, remain under-
researched.

Literature trends:
1. Legal and political studies: There is an increasing interest in analysing positive action policies,
reservations based on castes and legal frameworks in India and beyond. Researchers discuss their
effectiveness and involuntary results.
2 Dalit and counter-narrative studies: Dalit scholarships and oral stories question the dominant
bhramin stories. The rise of autobiographies, literature and intellectual contributions from Dalit
has reshaped the discourse.
3. Cross-border research and research: Study of casters in the South Asian communities of the
diaspora (US, UK and Canada).
4. Caste and technology: Digital activism against discrimination of castes, the role of social
networks in strengthening or complex caste structures, as well as cyber sealing on the caste are
new training areas.
5. Critical studies of Castor: inspired by the theory of critical race, scientists develop the
structure of the critical research of caste , comparing a caste with race and other social
hierarchies.

Discussion in the literature:

1. Class: Some researchers argue that caste is primarily a form of economic stratification, while
others emphasize deep-rooted religious and social aspects. The extent to which castes act as a
rigid or flexible system is challenged.
2. Role of Colonialism: There is debate over whether British colonial policies reinforced and
rigidified caste through census classification and administrative practices, or merely documented
pre-existing structures.
3. Relevance of modern India: Some argue that urbanization, education and economic mobility
destroys caste barriers, while others say that the Caste continues to shape a clear, slim and social
and political life There are also.
4. Reservations and Social Justice: While positive action policies empower marginalized groups,
critics say that rather than exclude them, they create inefficiencies and caste identity. They claim
to perpetuate it. Demand for caste reservation with relatively privileged groups remains a
controversial problem.
5 Castes and Religion: Castes are often associated with Hindus, but scholars discuss their
existence in other religious communities, such as Muslims, Sikhs and Christians, and challenge
the concept of caste as purely Hindu phenomenon.
By studying caste dynamics, primary and secondary sources play an important role in
understanding historical and contemporary issues.

Main sources:
Primary source -
 1 Archives and government files - Census data, reports from the colonial era (for example,
British administrative documents) and land files provide first -hand information on caste
structures.
2 Oral Stories and Interviews - Testimonies from Dalit activists, former communities and
marginalized groups provide personal information about caste oppression and resistance.
3 Manuscripts and religious texts - ancient Scriptures like the poems of Manusmriti,
Dharmashastras and Bhakti reflect the ideology of historical caste.
4. Autobiography and Memoirs - Works like B.R. demand the destruction of caste or Prakash
Valmiki.
Secondary materials:
1 Books and scientific articles - the work of sociologists, such as M.N. Srinivas (social changes
in modern India) and G.S. Guryev (caste and race in India) analyse Caste from an academic point
of view.
2 Research and Journal - Research weekly or in the field of Asian Economic and Political
Research Reviews explains the dynamics of caste development.
3 Documentary Films and Media Reporting - Investigation of plays and films from India and
other countries provides visual documents of caste reality.
The unification of these sources ensures a comprehensive analysis of castes as social, political
and economic phenomena.

Research methodology :
Research into caste dynamics in India requires an interdisciplinary approach that combines
qualitative and quantitative research methods. Caste is deeply rooted in social, economic and
political structures, and researchers are able to assess historical analysis, ethnographic work in
the field, statistical data, and policies to gain overall understanding. It must be used. Below is a
detailed research method used in caste studies.
1 Expansion of research -The study of caste dynamics is structured in the form of a design of the
search for mixed methods, integrating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. This ensures
that historical accounts, personal experience and statistics are collectively analyzed to ensure a
complete perspective.
2. How to collect primary data-Key research methods include gathering information from the
first hand from communities, individuals, and institutions.
3.Participant Observation: Researchers spend time in villages, urban habits and workplaces to
observe castes in social interactions, discrimination, and mobility.
4.Interviews and discussions in discussion groups: Dalines, OBCs, the best castes, semi-
structured interviews with individuals from tribal communities, and tribal communities help you
understand their life experiences. Individual stories of life, especially caste activists, ties leaders,
and people, give a detailed understanding of discrimination and resistance
5.Analysis of legal and government documents: Constitutional provisions investigations,
Supreme Court decisions, reservation policies, and census data can help assess the legal and
political frameworks governing caste.

Data analysis methods:

After collecting data for analysis, various methods are used.-
a) Theme analysis (for quality data)~ Interviews and field notes to identify recurring topics
such as discrimination, resistance, and caste pride. Comparative analysis of different
caste groups/narratives.
b) Statistical analysis (for quantitative data) ~ Analyze caste data in education, employment
and income using tools such as SPSS and Excel. Study of the correlation between caste
and socioeconomic indicators.
c) Discourse analysis~ An analysis of political speeches, media stories, and legal judgments
to understand how castes are framed in public discourse.
d) Ethical considerations (Informed consent): Participants are informed of the objective of
the study and their consent is obtained before the interviews.
e) (Confidentiality): The personal identities of the participants are anonymized to protect
their privacy. Cultural sensitivity: Researchers must be aware of the sensitivities based on
castes and avoid strengthening stereotypes.

Justification of research methods in studying caste dynamics:

The choice of research methods in caste dynamics is based on the complexity of the subject,
which involves historical, social, economic and political dimensions. Since caste is both a
structural system and lived experience, a mixed method approach - combining qualitative and
quantitative techniques - is the most appropriate. Below are excuses for choosing these methods
based on general research questions in caste study.

1 Ethnographic works in the field: Understanding life experiences-

Research Question: How does Caste shape daily life, social mobility and
discrimination in India?
Ethnographic work in the field (participant observations and in-depth interviews) appears to
provide ideas about how castes function in social interactions, employment, and public settings.
The personal stories of Dalits, OBC, and people of the best caste show a hierarchy of castes that
is not always set in official statistics .Discussion groups can help us study experiences of
discrimination and stability at the community level.
Justification: Ethnography reflects subjective experiences and unwritten cultural practices, so
understanding the reality of caste life is important.

2. Statistical examination and analysis: measurement of caste differences-

Research question: What are the socio-economic consequences of the caste in
terms of education, employment and income?
Large-scale voting provides quantitative data on caste-based inequality in education, wages, land
ownership and employment capabilities. Statistical tools (SPSS, Excel) help to analyze caste
identity and patterns and correlations. Government census data and reports (e.g., National
Sample Survey, NCRB crime records) provide macro-level insights into caste disparities.
Justification: Quantitative methods allow for comparisons across groups and help validate
broader trends in caste discrimination and mobility.

3. Historical and political analysis: A study of system structures-

Research Question: How do colonial policies, constitutional laws, and positive
structures exist in caste form over time?
Analysis of historical texts (Manusmriti, British Records) explains how Caste has become
institutionalized. The study of legal documents (the Constitution of India, the reservation policy)
helps to evaluate the effectiveness of positive actions. A review of the Supreme Court decision
and the government's report reveals policy gaps and implementation challenges.
Justification :Analysing the evolution of caste dynamics and assessing policy effectiveness
requires an understanding of historical context and legal frameworks.

4. Discourse and Media Analysis: Understanding the public's perceptions-

Research Question: How is caste expressed in media, political and public
discourse?
An analysis of political performances, news articles and documentary films shows how caste
narratives are built. The study of trends and protests on social networks helps to understand
modern caste movements.
 Justification: Caste is a very political issue, and media analysis contributes to the change that
follows the movement of recognition and resistance.

Caste dynamics in India: chronological perspective:

Caste in India has developed during the millennia, under the influence of religious, economic and
political changes. While its origin is rooted in ancient texts, its manifestations were smooth,
adapting to historical conditions. You will find below a chronological study of the caste
dynamics in India.

1 Old Period (1500 BC - 300 AD): Origin

The origin of the caste may be due to the Vedic period (1500-500 BC). Here, the company was
categorized by four varnas.1 Brahman (priest, scientist), 2. Kshatriya (warrior, ruler) ,3 Vaishyas
(merchants, farmers), 4. Shudras (laborers, service providers) .The Purusha Sukta hymn of the
Rigveda describes this division as divine, legitimizing the hierarchy (Sharma, 2005). Over time,
Jati (Podokachi) appeared, creating more difficult systems based on occupation and inheritance.
According to the Mauryan period (321-185 BC), Buddhism and Jainism challenged caste
inequality and spoke about social mobility (Thapar, 2002). However, Dharmaśāstras (e.g.,
Manusmriti, c. 200BCE -200CE) strengthens the law of caste, determines criteria for
contamination of purity, and limits interactions between casts (Olibelle, 2004).

2. Early Middle Ages (300-1200):

The Gupta Empire (4th-6th Century AD) marked the Renaissance of Brahmanic traditions and
strengthened caste differences. Brahman was provided with land and privileges, which
strengthened its advantage (Kulke & Rothermund, 2004). During this period, regional
differences in caste practices occurred. South India saw the growth of Werara (the dominant
agricultural caste), while North India witnessed the emergence of Rajput as an elite warrior
(Dirks, 2001). The Bhakti movement (8th and 12th centuries) challenged caste restrictions and
emphasized the dedication of the birth-based hierarchy (Ramanujan, 1989).

3. Late Medieval Period (1200–1750 CE): Influence of Islamic Rule

The Delhi Sultanate (1206–1526) and Mughal Empire (1526–1757) introduced new power
dynamics. Although Islam contributes to social mobility, caste practices are also preserved
among converts. Ashraf (elite Muslim) and Aziraf (transformed with lower caste content) reflect
the stratification of cast types in Muslim communities (Bayly, 1999). In Akbar (1556–1605),
policies such as the abolition of the Jizya tax on non-Muslims support future interactions.
However, Brahman has influenced particularly the administrative and temple networks (Eaton,
2005)

4. Colonial Period (1757–1947): Custa and Social Reform

British rules presented caste-based calculations in the 1871 census, reinforcing caste hard
identity (Dirks, 2001). The colonial government has also institutionalized Casta through legal
and administrative measures affecting land rights, education and employment.
In response, the movements of the social reform appears: Jyotirao Phule (1827–1890) criticized
the domination of the Brahmanas and advocated education with low caste content (Omvedt,
1976). B.R. Ambedar (1891–1956) led movements against caste discrimination, subsequently
developing the Constitution of India with provisions on reservations (positive actions) for
planned castes (SC) and planned tribes (STS) (STS) (Jaffrelot, 2005).
Hindu reform movements, such as Arya Samaj and Brahmo Samaj, sought to cancel the
untouchability, but mainly within the framework of the upper caste (Bayly, 1999).

5. Post-Independence Period (1947): Caste and Democracy

The Indian Constitution (1950) prohibits tactileness (Article 17) and introduces reservations of
education, employment and politics (Austin, 1999). However, discrimination of castes has been
preserved.
Key events include: Mandala Commission (1980, implemented in 1990): 27% of the reserve for
other backward classes (OBC) was recommended, which leads to national demonstrations and to
the evolution of castes policy (Jaffrelot, 2003). Political mobilization of the Dalits and OBC:
Political parties like the Samaj (BSP) and Samajwadi (SP) party of the Bahujan Party have
influenced, which raises doubts about the domination of upper castes (Yadav, 2000). Violence
and caste-based atrocities: cases such as Khairlanji Massacre (2006) (2006) highlight ongoing
discrimination (Guru, 2009). Despite legal protections, the customer remains a key component in
marriage, policy and social interaction. In urban India, castesov borders, but caste networks are
kept in markets of employment, housing and local management (Deshpande, 2011).

Answer for the four research questions-

1)How does Caste shape daily life, social mobility and discrimination in India?
Caste and its influence on daily life, social mobility and discrimination in India-
The caste system, a social hierarchy deeply rooted in India, continues to train various aspects of
daily life, social mobility and discrimination, despite efforts to dismantle them legally and
socially. Although the caste system has developed, its influence remains obvious in social
interactions, economic capacities and institutional prejudices.
Caste and daily life:
Caste plays an important role in everyday life in India and influences interpersonal relationships,
religious practices, and even dietary habits. In many rural and urban areas, caste separation is
constantly seen in housing, education and construction of public events. Weddings mainly follow
the national model in which people get married in caste and strengthen their traditional hierarchy.
Festivals and religious rituals often reflect caste distinctions. Certain temples historically limit
access to low caste people. Professional choices are also influenced by caste. Modern education
and economic liberalization have ensured specific flexibility, but many communities still follow
genetic professions. For example, Dalits are traditionally assigned to writing works such as
hygiene, but the highest caste groups dominate the position of power and influence in the
politics, problem and scientific community.

Caste and Social Mobility:

-Despite constitutional guarantees, caste has a major impact on India's social mobility. More
expensive individuals often have better access to quality education, well -paid jobs and political
influence, creating a cycle of privileges. Conversely, the lower caste groups, in particular the
dalits and the adivasis, are faced with systemic barriers that hinder ascending mobility.
-Government policies such as reservations in education and employment aim to counteract
historical injustices and promote social mobility. Affirmative action has enabled many from
marginalized communities to access opportunities that were historically denied. However, we
will explain the effectiveness of this policy, as discrimination and economic differences are
preserved.
-Economic globalization and urbanization have provided the potential for caste mobility. In
urban areas, as a rule, the professional and business environment is more meritocratic and
reduces caste restrictions. Nevertheless, implicit bias still exists, and many people face bias
during employment, advertising behavior and workplace dynamics.
Caste and discrimination :
Discrimination based on castes remains an important problem in India. Despite legal protection,
caste -based violence continues. Dalits in particular face atrocities, including honour killing,
forced labor, and denial of national resources such as water wells and temples. Messages about
discrimination in school and workplaces at caste indicate that deep-rooted bias is preserved. In
political and economic fields, caste dynamics play a critical role. Political parties often mobilize
voters according to caste identity and strengthen social inconsistencies. Economic disparities
between caste groups result in unequal access to healthcare, education, and employment
opportunities, further perpetuating caste-based inequities.

2) What are the socio-economic consequences of the caste in terms of education,

employment and income?
Socioeconomic consequences of caste in education, employment and income.
For a long time, Kasta has been a critical feature of many societies, particularly South Asia's
socioeconomic structure. This affects access to education, employment ability, and income
levels, and often leads to systemic inequality remaining in generations.
A) Caste and education-
Education is a decisive factor for social mobility, but caste differences always prevent equal
access to quality education. Historically, education has been denied or limited opportunities
provided for low caste communities, particularly for Dalit and Planned Tribes (STS). Legal
reforms such as reserves and positive actions have improved access
Access to schools and high quality education: Children of marginalized caste often encounter
discrimination in schools, leading to higher WEM. Many public schools, especially in rural
areas, do not have the right infrastructure, teachers, or qualified resources. This affects the
quality of education students who have low caste content gain.
Higher Education: While reservation policies have increased enrollment of marginalized caste
students in universities, they still face social discrimination, lack of financial support, and
difficulties in securing prestigious institutions admission. As a result, representation in higher
education remains low compared to dominant caste groups.
Social discrimination in schools: intimidation and exclusion of castes prevent students from
lowering castes to obtain studies. Teachers from the upper part of the caste can unconsciously or
deliberately strengthen the caste, which complicates marginalized students to prosper in
academic order.
B) Caste and employment-
The possibilities of employment are deeply affected by the identity of the castes, despite the anti-
discrimination laws. Discrimination in caste at the time of employment, workplace and
advertising action continue to prevent equal opportunities.
professional law: Historically, caste has been determined by occupation. The lower caste is
forced to work for black people and humiliating jobs, including hygiene, hand weights and
agricultural activities. While modernization has reduced tough professional roles, many people
from the lower caste are still limited by low-paid, unsafe jobs.
Discrimination of the private sector: unlike the public sector, which has a policy of positive
actions, in the private sector, there is mainly no caste reserve. Research shows that candidates
with lower caste content have fewer calls to interviews compared to candidates with similar
qualifications from higher caste.
Obstacles to Entrepreneurship: Company ownership is primarily controlled by upper castes,
which have historical advantages in wealth and network accumulation. Low-caste entrepreneurs
often struggle to access the capital, markets and social networks needed to succeed in their
business.
C) Caste and income differences-
Income levels reflect long -standing economic inequalities immortalized by the caste system.
Marginalized communities generally receive a lower salary and have less accumulation of
wealth. Wage gaps: The study shows significant differences in wages between employees of
higher caste and lower caste content, even in similar positions. Dalits and Adivasi often work in
informal sectors, with low wages and inadequately observed labour rights.
Poverty and Land Ownership: Land Ownership is a key factor in determining wealth, but caste
communities have historically been deprived of land rights. As a result, they remain landless
workers, and groups of upper castes continue to maintain important lands and goods. Poverty
between generations: since wealth and assets are transmitted during generations, it is difficult to
avoid a cycle of poverty to a low caste. Access limited to quality education and stable
employment still exacerbates income inequality.

3)policies, constitutional laws, and positive structures exist in caste form over
time?
Politicians, constitutional laws and positive structures in the formation of the caste over
time .Caste as a socio-political structure has been formed and reinforced by various politicians,
constitutional laws and institutional frameworks. Over time, various governments and societies
have been supported or have tried to reform the inequalities of castes through legal, social and
economic mechanisms.
1 Politics and caste formation-
Politicians play a critical role in shaping caste dynamics. In a society with a historic caste
system, politicians can either strengthen caste differences or tackle reduced inequality. for
example:
*Colonial Policy: During India's British rule, the classification of custa was institutionalized
through census and administrative structures. The British also codified caste practices and
unintentionally strengthened hierarchical units.
* Positive Action Policy: Many countries, particularly India, have introduced preparatory
policies to increase historically marginalized caste groups. The Indian government reserves
locations for education and employment for planned castes (SC), planned tribes (STS), and other
rear classes (OBCs) through positive action. This policy aims to correct historical injustice and
promote social mobility.
*Economic Policy and Reform: Land Ownership Policy has played a role in strengthening or
dismantling caste-based economic disparities. After independence in India, ground reform
violated traditional domination in upper castes on earth, sought to redistribute lands in low caste
groups.
B)Caste Constitution and Structure-
*Abolishing untouchability: The Constitution of India (Article 17) explicitly abolishes teachers
who criminalize discrimination based on caste. Equal Rights and Anti-Discrimination Law: The
Constitution guarantees protection in accordance with law (Article 14) and prohibits
discrimination based on caste, religion, gender, or place of birth (Article 15).
*Legislative Measures: Planned Caste Act of 1989 and Planned Tribes (prevention of Atrocities)
were adopted to prevent caste-based violence and discrimination. The Act guarantees sanctions
for caste-related crimes and provides support to victims.
*Judicial Interpretation: Courts played an important role in training in caste-related laws.
Historical judgments confirmed booking policies, expanded protections for marginalized groups,
and strengthened legal efforts to establish more equitable businesses.
C)Positive structure and dynamics of caste-
Positive structures are related to social, economic and institutional mechanisms that influence
caste interactions over time. These structures can either strengthen caste differences or promote
equality.
*Education System: Traditional barriers have been overcome by expanding access to education
for low-content caste communities. Schools, scholarships and universities create opportunities
for social mobility.
*Urbanization and economic liberalization: industrialization and economic growth have led to an
increased migration and social mixture, weakening the rigid professional roles based on castes.
* Social Movements and Activities: DALITS Movements, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar played a critical
role in challenging the caste hierarchy and promoting political reform.
*Media and Technology: Increased access to digital platforms has given marginalized groups a
voice to challenge caste discrimination, mobilize activities and spread information about rights
and legal protections.

4)How is caste expressed in media, political and public discourse?

Caste is expressed in the media, political and public discourse in the RASEN, often reflecting
wider social relations, historical context and the dynamics of power.
A)Media presentation: Basic media is often portrayed in a limited or distorted manner by caste.
Issues like caste discrimination, honour killing, caste violence can be superficial or sensational.
In principle, the good caste perspective is controlled by the Ministry of Nouveres, which leads to
the lack of votes for Dalits, Bahujan and Adivasi. In film and television, Custa is either innocent
or stereotyped, reinforcing social hierarchies. However, independent media and digital platforms
provided space for marginalized voices to challenge dominant narratives.
B) Political discourse: Caste plays a critical role in election policy, shaping party strategies,
selecting candidates, and mobilizing voters. Political parties use caste identities for voting
policies by integrating dominant caste groups or appealing to Dalit and OBC communities
through reservations and social security policy commitments. Debates on positive actions, caste
census and social justice are common, with resistance to the highest castration reserves, often
forming a caste as obsolete, while the leaders of Dalit and Bahujan highlight its constant
relevance. Political mobilization by Dalines and reverse caste movements has also led to the
emergence of caste parties, which questions the traditional power structures.
C) Public speech and social movements: In public speech, the caste is disputed and standardized.
City elite circles often undermine their connections and insist on "meritism" by ignoring system
caste privileges. On the contrary, Dalit and Bahujan intellectuals, activists and social movements
always distinguish caste oppression and promote equality and dignity. Hastag , including the
#DalitLivesMatter and the literature on fighting Custom, has obtained drafts and led to caste
discourse on the global platform. At the same time, caste pride and identity claims – both
oppressed and dominant groups create cultural and social interactions, from marriage
partnerships to employment networks. Thus, Caste remains deeply built into the media, politics
and public discourse.

Conclusion :
~Evolution and future caste in India -Caste in India developed over millennia, turning from an
early social classification into a tough hierarchy, which influenced each aspect of Indian society.
Despite legal and social reforms, Caste continues to form economic opportunities, political
representation and social mobility. Its stability highlights the complexity of historical structures
and adaptation to modern situations.
~Historical Heritage and Transformation-Caste originally worked as a flexible specialized
system during the Vedic era, but over time it became more strict, especially with the codification
of texts such as Manusmriti. In the early Middle Ages, Brahmin hegemony was integrated, and
during the Middle Ages introduced Islamic and regional influences. Colonial rule further
institutionalized castes through census classification and administrative policy, strengthening
social division. After independence, India took constitutional measures to abolish the Masters
and introduced reservations for the planned caste (SCS), planned tribes (STS), and other rear
classes (OBCs). The introduction of the Mandala Committee's (1990) recommendations changed
caste policy and expanded the capacity of lower castes, but also caused negative reactions. While
positive behaviour has helped improve the representative office, this has also led to tensions over
booking policies and inclusion requirements for different groups.
~Modern Indian caste-In urban areas, economic growth and education have weakened obvious
caste discrimination, but caste-based social networks continue to influence the fields of
employment, housing and marriage. Political parties mobilize caste identities, creating a dynamic
electoral landscape, and caste alliances determine the outcome of the election. Nevertheless,
caste violence reflects constant discrimination, as can be seen from cases such as the Genocide
Hairlanji (2006) and the continued atrocities against the Dalits. The growth of the Dalit and OBC
movement, along with the party's Bahujan Samaj (BSP) and regional castes, will trigger
domination in upper castes that have led to more comprehensive management. Nevertheless,
economic liberalization (1991) created a paradox, but among the lower caste groups received
from market growth, many remain historical models of exceptions. The future of the Indian caste
~The future of Indian caste will depend on several factors, including:
1. Economic and educational access: Quality education and expanding economic
opportunities are essential to breaking caste obstacles.
2. . Legal reform and implementation: There is a non-discrimination law, but the application
of the law remains weak. Strengthening institutions to prevent violence and
discrimination based on caste is crucial.
3. Changes in social opinion: caste castes, urbanization, and marriage between activities on
social networks are complex caste standards. Initiatives such as private sector bookings
can further reduce differences.
4. Political and Political Change: Caste continues to influence politics, but the nature of
caste mobilization can develop along with changing economic conditions and young
people's aspirations. Rigid form of castes can weaken over time, but their impact on
 identity, privilege and exclusion remains important. True social equality requires not only
legal action but cultural changes that redefine social status beyond birth-based
hierarchies. That's only time India can move to a more inclusive and fair company. Caste
is no longer a definitive spell.

References:
1.) Austin, Granville. The Indian Constitution: Cornerstone of a Nation. Oxford
University Press, 1999.
2.) Bayley, Susan. Caste, Society and Politics in India from the Eighteenth Century to
the Modern Age. Cambridge University Press, 1999.
3.) Deshpande, Satish. Contemporary India: A Sociological View. Penguin, 2011.
4.) Dirks, Nicholas. Castes of Mind: Colonialism and the Making of Modern India.
Princeton University Press, 2001.
5.) Eaton, Richard M. India in the Persianate Age: 1000–1765. Penguin, 2005.
6.) Guru, Gopal. Humiliation: Claims and Contexts. Oxford University Press, 2009.
7.) Jaffrelot, Christophe. India’s Silent Revolution: The Rise of the Lower Castes in
North India. Columbia University Press, 2003.
8.) Kulke, Hermann, and Dietmar Rothermund. A History of India. Routledge, 2004.
9.) Olivelle, Patrick. Manu’s Code of Law: A Critical Edition and Translation of the
Manava-Dharmasastra. Oxford University Press, 2004.
10.) Ramanujan, A.K. Poems of Love and War: From the Eight Anthologies
and the Ten Long Poems of Classical Tamil. Columbia University Press, 1989.
11.) Sharma, R.S. India's Ancient Past. Oxford University Press, 2005.
Certificate of Completion

This is to certify that Harshita Solanki has completed the 12-Week Major Project under the
guidance and supervision of Dr. Swati Shastri [303470], Assistant Professor-II, at the Amity
Institute of Social Sciences, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh.

The project, titled caste and dynamics was undertaken as part of the academic curriculum and
demonstrates the candidate's dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence in History.
Over 12 weeks, the candidate exhibited a strong understanding of the subject matter, applied
critical thinking, and showcased the ability to conduct independent research under the expert
mentorship of Dr. Swati Shastri.
This certificate recognizes the candidate’s outstanding performance and successful completion of
the project, which aligns with Amity University's academic standards and values.

We congratulate Harshita Solanki for their remarkable achievement and wish them continued
success in all future endeavors.

Dr. Swati Shastri [303470]

Assistant Professor-II

Amity Institute of Social Sciences

Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh