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Salient features of Indian Society

In News:Why a caste Census is not ‘harmless’

While affirmative actions have improved the living standards and social status of the downtrodden, it has largely failed to eradicate caste-based identities. Do you agree?

Affirmative action policies are measures designed to address past discrimination and promote equal opportunities for historically marginalized groups. 

Positive impacts of affirmative action policies:

1. Economic Improvements: Affirmative action has led to significant economic advancements for individuals from marginalized communities, helping to improve their living standards through better access to education and employment.
2. Social Mobility: This increased access to opportunities fosters upward mobility, improving their socioeconomic status and social standing.   
3. Empowerment: Affirmative action policies empower individuals and communities historically excluded, fostering self-confidence and participation in society.
4. Institutional Support: Affirmative action has created programs and initiatives that offer targeted support and resources, such as scholarships and mentorships, which help individuals from marginalised groups to succeed.
5. Legal Frameworks: Legal and policy frameworks established to support affirmative action have set precedents for addressing inequality and discrimination, contributing to gradual societal changes.

Though affirmative actions have improved living standards but failed to eradicate caste-based identities

1. Affirmative action in its current form contributes to the maintenance of caste identities, instead of helping in moving beyond them.Example: politicisation of caste and casteisation of Politics
2. Deep-Rooted Prejudices: Centuries-old social structures and ingrained prejudices persist, creating social exclusion and hindering complete integration.
3. Focus on Access, not Attitudes: Policies might prioritize access to education and jobs without addressing underlying social mindsets that perpetuate caste identities.
4. Social Segregation: Despite economic improvements, social segregation and discrimination based on caste often continue in everyday interactions and community life.
5. Limited Reach: Affirmative action policies primarily target formal sectors, such as education and employment, but may not address informal social practices and discrimination that perpetuate caste identities.
6. Economic Disparities: The benefits of affirmative action can be unevenly distributed, leaving some individuals and communities still facing significant economic and social disparities.According to Rohini commission, nearly 37% (983) of OBC communities had zero representation in jobs and educational institutions.
7. Resistance to Change: There can be resistance to change from entrenched social structures and attitudes that perpetuate caste-based discrimination, despite policy interventions.
8. Community Dynamics: Within marginalised communities, internal hierarchies and caste-based distinctions can persist, limiting the overall effectiveness of affirmative action in eradicating caste identities.
9. Resentment: Affirmative action can lead to resentment from some upper castes who feel they lose opportunities due to reservations.

Affirmative action needs to be combined with initiatives to address social attitudes and promote inclusivity.Continuous review and refinement of policies are crucial to ensure they are effective and reach the most marginalised.

Source:https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/why-a-caste-census-is-not-harmless-9545205/