Layers within Caste in India: Pathways to Social Inclusion and Equity

This book goes beyond the conventional understanding of social stratification in India. It provides a comprehensive overview of the problem of caste and subcaste discrimination, including different forms, and its impact on Dalits. It challenges the status quo and offers a vision for a more just and equitable India. It describes disparities in the economic status by discussing the empirical evidence from the field. The chapters discuss sociocultural, economic and healthcare access to marginalized social groups. It also illustrates through lived experiences and narratives how a hierarchical grouping of sub-castes is based on their perceived occupational purity. The book offers ways to address the stated challenges to achieve the goal of an inclusive society. It reflects the policy reforms that may play a role in bridging the gap within Dalits while also bridging the gap between Dalits and other sections of society. The book interests scholars and activists in understanding the complexities of social stratification, social exclusion and inclusion, vulnerability and subjectivity, marginalized sections of society and their impact on people's lives.