Dominant caste

UNIT-8: DOMINANT CASTE, EMERGING CLASS STRUCTURE IN RURAL INDIA

Structure

  • 8.1 Learning Objectives

  • 8.2 Introduction

  • 8.3 Meaning of Dominant Caste

  • 8.4 Characteristics of Dominant Caste

  • 8.5 Changes in the Dominant Caste Concept and Shifting Power Dynamics

  • 8.6 Views of Thinkers about Dominant Caste

  • 8.7 History of Class Structure in Rural India

  • 8.8 Dynamics of Agrarian Class Structure in India

  • 8.9 Agrarian Structure of Caste and Class in Rural India

  • 8.10 Views on Different Sociologists on Agrarian Class Structure in India

  • 8.11 Let Us Sum Up

  • 8.12 Glossary

  • 8.13 Check Your Progress

  • 8.14 References

8.1 Learning Objectives

  • Understand the concept of Dominant Caste.

  • Learn about various characteristics of Dominant Caste.

  • Know the concept of Agrarian Class Structure in India.

8.2 Introduction

  • The term 'dominant caste' was introduced by M.N. Srinivas in his studies of Mysore's social structure, particularly in Rampura village, Karnataka.

  • The British land tax system in India contributed to a new class structure involving agricultural laborers, renters, and landowners (zamindars).

  • Major tenants were largely feudal landlords, while agricultural laborers were left as low caste bondmen.

  • Post-independence land reforms caused significant shifts, benefiting intermediary castes like Ahir and Kurmi, while large landlords' power began to decline.

8.3 Meaning of Dominant Caste

  • M.N. Srinivas defined dominant caste as a caste that possesses both political and economic power, situated high in the caste hierarchy.

  • Dominant castes traditionally include groups like Lingayat, Okkaliga, Rajput, Jat, and others based on land and influence.

  • The significance of caste membership has evolved, particularly with the advent of adult suffrage and political representation for scheduled castes.

8.4 Characteristics of Dominant Caste

  1. Powerful Economic and Political Interest

    • Dominant castes derive authority from land ownership, which provides economic advantages.

    • Land size impacts irrigation, revenue, and employment for landless farmers.

    • Examples of dominant castes include Brahmins and Okkaligas in South India.

  2. Highest Position in the Caste System

    • The highest-ranked castes, like Brahmins and Rajputs, traditionally hold power in village governance and cultural practices.

    • The meaning of dominance has altered with new political factors such as reservations for various groups.

  3. Strength in Numbers

    • The advent of adult suffrage has increased the power of castes based on numerical strength, influencing political landscapes significantly.

  4. A Significant Portion of Farmland

    • Dominant castes typically control substantial farmland, leading to increased economic power and influence in villages.

    • Land ownership is viewed as essential for establishing and maintaining social status.

8.5 Changes in the Dominant Caste Concept and Shifting Power Dynamics

  • The rigid caste hierarchy is evolving, with blurred boundaries among caste groups due to urban migration, mechanization, and vocational diversity.

  • New political frameworks emphasize democratic principles, allowing participation from all caste groups, undermining traditional power structures.

8.6 Views of Thinkers about Dominant Caste

  • Andre Beteille highlights that traditional property ownership is losing direct correlation with political power, indicating a shift towards class-neutral power structures.

  • D.N. Majumdar's research suggested that economic pillars sustaining caste dominance (like jamindari system) are deteriorating.

  • Yogendra Singh notes the economic standing of dominant castes remains central in communities, with castes like Okkaligas and Brahmins rising to influence.