Question

Write short note.

Caste diversity in India

Answer 1

1. Caste is a major source of diversity in Indian society. 
2. Sociologists define caste through two axes i.e., varna and jati.
3. Varna is the overall, overarching ideological division of Hindus into the four-fold hierarchy of Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya and Shudra. 
4. It is believed that there are about 3500 jatis found in India, out of which 751 are classified under the Scheduled Caste communities.
5. The caste system provided the bases of social structure. The different castes functioned in an interdependent barter relationship. It was also a source of inequality and marginalisation of some communities. 
6. There was exchange of goods and services between various jatis. The Kamin (Client: artisan/ service castes) used to provide services to the Jajman (Patron: landlord). In return, he was given rewards in terms of kind. However, the jajmani system is gradually fading away. 
7. The practice of caste system is not confined to Hindus. The caste-like divisions are seen among Muslims, Christians and Sikhs as well. 
8. There is a hierarchy of Amir, Shaikh, Sayyed, Pathan among the Muslims. Furthermore, there are castes like Teli, Dhobi, Darjee etc. amongst them. 
9. Similarly, caste consciousness among the Christians is well known. Since a majority of Christians in India were converted from the Hindu-fold, some converts have carried their caste system into their Christian identity.
10. Under the Constitutional Order of 1950 (amended in 1990), the term ‘Scheduled Caste’ can only be used by Hindu, Sikh and Buddhist people who are listed on the schedule, whereas ‘Scheduled Tribe’ people may have any religious identity. This reflects the extent of caste diversity in India.