Economic Disparities and its Relationship with Caste System in Contemporary India

Caste plays an essential role in the Indian's economic life. Every caste in the caste system has a distinct position and social standing. Economic position and economic disparity in society are intimately and rigorously linked to the caste system. A person’s profession, social standing, and access to resources were traditionally dictated by their caste, and the system had a significant impact on economic development and mobility. The caste system has important economic ramifications because it has historically restricted lower castes to low-skilled and menial labour while giving higher castes control over income, land, and resources, reinforcing social disparities. For people of lower castes, this separation restricted their access to healthcare, education, and other economic possibilities, thus perpetuating a cycle of poverty.