Modernising our society
Business Standard
Central Thesis
The article argues that true modernisation in India is not merely about economic growth but about dismantling deep-rooted caste hierarchies through quality education, skill development, equal access to opportunities, and increasing inter-caste marriages. Social mobility and equity, rather than infrastructure alone, are the real markers of progress.
Key Arguments
1. Social Modernisation vs Economic Modernisation
While India has progressed economically, social structures—particularly caste hierarchies—continue to limit mobility and equal opportunity.
2. Persistent Caste-Based Disparities
Data on consumption expenditure and employment patterns reveal significant gaps between Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and upper castes. Regular employment and higher-income opportunities remain disproportionately skewed.
3. Education as the Primary Lever
Access to quality education and higher education opportunities is presented as the most effective instrument for social mobility.
4. Limited Impact of Reservation Alone
Though affirmative action has expanded representation in public institutions, structural discrimination and socio-economic disadvantages persist.
5. Inter-Caste Marriages as Social Proof
The article posits that rising inter-caste marriages would be the ultimate indicator of social integration and the weakening of caste boundaries.
Author’s Stance
The tone is reformist and socially progressive. It advocates structural transformation through education and mobility rather than relying solely on legal or symbolic measures. The author appears to support affirmative action but sees it as insufficient without deeper socio-economic change.
Possible Biases
Urban Reformist Lens
The argument may underplay rural socio-cultural complexities that influence marriage patterns and occupational structures.
Education-Centric Assumption
The article assumes education automatically translates into reduced discrimination, though social biases can persist despite economic mobility.
Optimistic View of Inter-Caste Marriage
While symbolically powerful, inter-caste marriages may not alone dismantle entrenched hierarchies.
Pros of the Argument
- Emphasises structural reform over tokenism
- Highlights measurable socio-economic disparities
- Connects social equity with economic productivity
- Advocates long-term transformation
Limitations and Counterpoints
- Social change is slow and shaped by local contexts
- Economic inequality intersects with caste, gender, and region
- Education quality remains uneven across states
- Private sector representation and labour market discrimination need deeper reform
Policy Implications
Strengthening Public Education
Investment in foundational literacy, higher education access, and skill training is critical.
Expanding Employment Access
Bridging gaps in regular salaried employment across caste groups requires inclusive growth strategies.
Urbanisation and Mobility
Migration to urban centres can dilute rigid social structures but also creates new vulnerabilities.
Monitoring Social Indicators
Inter-caste marriage rates, educational attainment, and income mobility should be tracked as development metrics.
Real-World Impact
- Reducing caste-based inequality improves human capital utilisation.
- Greater social integration strengthens national cohesion.
- Higher educational attainment among marginalised groups boosts productivity and consumption.
- Failure to address disparities may perpetuate social unrest and underdevelopment.
UPSC GS Paper Linkages
GS Paper I – Indian Society
- Caste system and its evolution
- Social empowerment
- Inter-caste marriages and social reform
GS Paper II – Governance & Social Justice
- Reservation policy
- Educational reforms
- Inclusive development
GS Paper III – Economy
- Human capital development
- Labour market participation
- Inclusive growth
Essay Themes
- “Social Reform as the Foundation of Economic Modernisation”
- “Education as the Great Equaliser”
Balanced Conclusion and Future Perspective
Modernisation must extend beyond infrastructure and GDP growth to social transformation. While affirmative action has expanded access, entrenched caste hierarchies continue to influence education, employment, and social relations.
A multi-pronged strategy—quality education, economic inclusion, urban integration, and cultural change—remains essential. Inter-caste marriages may symbolise deeper integration, but the true measure of modernity lies in equal opportunity and dignity for all citizens.
India’s next phase of development must therefore align economic ambition with social justice.
