How have the dynamics of caste and class evolved in post-independence India, and what impact have these changes had on social and economic inequalities? Discuss with examples.

The dynamics of caste and class in post-independence India have undergone big transformations, yet their impact on social and economic inequalities remains profound.

The Indian Constitution abolished untouchability and provided legal safeguards against caste-based discrimination. However, the deeply entrenched caste system continues to shape social interactions and economic opportunities.

• Education and economic growth have led to increased social mobility and a weakening of traditional caste hierarchies. For instance, the IT sector has provided employment opportunities based on merit rather than caste, as exemplified by the success stories of individuals like Satya Nadella (Microsoft CEO) and Sundar Pichai (Google CEO).
• Affirmative action policies, such as reservation in education and government jobs, have aimed to redress historical injustices and promote inclusive growth. For example, the Mandal Commission (1979) recommended 27% reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in central government jobs, which was implemented in 1990.
• Despite legal protections, caste-based discrimination continues to limit access to resources and opportunities for marginalized communities. A 2016 study by the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) found that only 5% of upper-caste Hindus were poor, compared to 30% of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and 26% of Scheduled Tribes (STs).

The interplay of caste and class has created new forms of inequality and social stratification. While some individuals from lower castes have achieved upward mobility through education and entrepreneurship, such as the Dalit entrepreneur Milind Kamble, who founded the Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DICCI), the vast majority continue to face barriers in accessing quality education, healthcare, and employment.