What is the order in which the caste system has changed in India?

Answer 1

The caste system in India has evolved and changed over thousands of years. The order in which it has changed can be summarized as follows:

1. Ancient Vedic Society (1500 BCE - 600 BCE): The caste system originated during this period, known as the Vedic period. It was primarily based on occupation, with four main castes: Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (laborers and servants). This system was not rigid and allowed social mobility.

2. Mauryan Empire (322 BCE - 185 BCE): The caste system became more rigid during the Mauryan Empire. Emperor Ashoka introduced stricter regulations and laws to govern society, further entrenching caste divisions.

3. Medieval Period (900 CE - 1700 CE): The influence of foreign invasions and Muslim rule during this period had an impact on the caste system. The Muslim rulers did not follow the Hindu caste system and saw all Hindu subjects as a single community, which played a role in blurring the strict caste boundaries.

4. Colonial Era (1757 CE - 1947 CE): The arrival of the British colonial rule brought significant changes to the caste system. The British categorized and codified the castes for administrative purposes, conducting a comprehensive survey called the 'Census of India' in 1872. They also introduced laws and policies that aimed to undermine the caste system and promote equality.

5. Post-Independence Period (1947 CE - Present): The Indian Constitution, adopted in 1950, explicitly outlawed untouchability and discrimination based on caste. Affirmative action policies, known as reservations, were introduced to promote social and educational opportunities for historically disadvantaged castes and tribes, collectively known as Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST). These measures marked a significant departure from the traditional caste system.

It is important to note that despite these changes, remnants of the caste system continue to exist in Indian society. However, efforts have been ongoing to address caste-based discrimination and promote social equality.