UPSC Mains 2018 GS1 Q8 — Indian Society
“Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, caste system cannot be eradicated in India.” Comment. (Answer in 150 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Comment
- Scope keywords
- Caste systemassuming new identitiesassociational formscannot be eradicated
- Implicit sub-parts
- How is caste shifting from a ritual/purity-based hierarchy to a secular/political identity?
- What are the modern 'associational forms' of caste (e.g., pressure groups, matrimonial sites, caste-based parties)?
- Critically evaluate the statement: Is caste truly permanent, or are these 'new identities' a transition toward democratization?
- Identify countervailing forces that still work toward the erosion of caste.
- Common pitfalls
- Spending too much time describing the traditional Varna system instead of modern 'associational' forms.
- Agreeing completely with the statement without highlighting the weakening of 'purity-pollution' and 'commensality' rules.
- Failing to mention specific examples like the politicization of caste (Caste-Census demand, vote banks) or digital caste-solidarity.
- Writing a generic essay on caste discrimination rather than addressing the 'structural transformation' of caste into an interest group.
- Dimensions required
- Political (Identity politics and Vote banks)Technological (Digital caste networks and Matrimonials)Socio-Economic (Caste-based business chambers like DICCI)Constitutional/Legal (Reservation and the Paradox of strengthening identity to gain benefits)
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate 30 words to the shift from ritual to secular identity. Devote 70 words to documenting new associational forms (political, economic, digital). Use 50 words to provide a balanced 'comment'—noting that while identity persists, the oppressive hierarchy is being challenged by urbanization and law.
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