HPAS/Allied Mains 2022 Answer Writing Challenge Day 16: Model Answer

Question: Write a note on social stratification.                                                                                     4 Marks

 Answer: 

Introduction – Social stratification is a process in which social inequalities exist in the form of structural hierarchical strata, placed one above the other. It is defined as a process of differentiation that places some people higher than the others. Stratification is viewed as a method devised by sociologists to understand inequality in the society.

The caste stratification of the Indian society had its origin in the chaturvarna system. Caste is closely connected with the Hindu philosophy and religion, custom and tradition. It is believed to have had a divine origin and sanction. It is deeply rooted social institution in India. There are more than 2800 castes and sub-castes with all their peculiarities.  The caste system owns its origin to the Varna system.  The Sanskrit word for caste is Varna that means colour. According to this doctrine the Hindu society was divided into four main varnas – Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras. The Varna system prevalent during the Vedic period was mainly based on division of labour and occupation. A fifth group that falls outside the Varna system and is called Avarna or outcaste or untouchable also exists.

Caste is an endogamous group having a relatively independent culture and structural existence.  M.N Srinivas sees caste as a segmentary system. The major attributes of caste are the hierarchy, the separation and the division of labour. Caste system hierarchically divides the society. A sense of highness and lowness or superiority and inferiority is associated with this gradation or ranking. The status of an individual is determined by his birth and not by selection nor by accomplishments. Each caste has its own customs, traditions practices and rituals. It has its own informal rules, regulations and procedures. The caste panchayats or the caste councils regulate the conduct of members.

Stratification particulary caste system has divided the society and has become cause of communal conflict in the recent times and it has developed fractures and chasm in the society which is unhealthy for democratic ethos and functioning.