| PYQ Relevance: Q) The caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, caste system cannot be eradicated in India.” Comment. (UPSC CSE 2018) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the ‘Right to Equality’ (2021) and ‘Multi-cultural Indian Society’ (2020).
Oxfam India Report (2022) indicates that 97% of surveyed Dalits reported experiencing discrimination in their workplaces, with 32.5% facing denied promotions and 19.4% being purposefully transferred due to caste-related biases.
Today’s editorial critically examines the pervasive belief in meritocracy within the Indian IT industry and its implications for caste-based inequalities. This content can be used to present ‘Caste-based discrimination at workplaces’ and ‘Key highlights of NSSO Reports’ in your mains answers.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The recent NSSO Report conducts extensive household surveys across India, highlighting the significant caste-based disparities in the IT sector.
| What is Meritocracy? • Meritocracy is the belief that individuals should succeed based on their abilities and efforts rather than their social background. In theory, it promotes equality by providing everyone with an equal chance to succeed. • However, this ideal is increasingly being challenged as a myth that fails to account for systemic inequalities, particularly in the context of caste in India. What does the NSSO data say about Caste Disparities in the IT Sector? The study draws from two NSSO survey rounds: the 78th (2020-21) and the 68th (2011-12): • Caste-Based Employment Disparities: Analysis of NSSO data reveals significant caste-based disparities in employment probabilities and wage earnings within the IT sector, challenging the notion of inclusivity in this industry. • Employment Probabilities: Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) have only a 10% probability of being employed in the IT sector, compared to 27% for upper castes. This disparity persists even after controlling for educational attainment and other factors.From 2011-12 to 2020-21, the probability gap widened, with lower caste groups experiencing an increase in their disadvantage from an 11% deficit to a 17% deficit despite overall growth in IT employment. • Wage Disparities: SC and Other Backward Classes (OBC) workers face wage differentials of 24.9% and 22.5%, respectively, compared to their upper caste counterparts, even when accounting for education and employment type. • Labour Market Segmentation: The findings align with labour market segmentation theory, indicating that lower castes are relegated to lower segments of the job market with limited opportunities for upward mobility. This reflects ongoing social barriers that hinder marginalized groups from fully participating in the growing IT sector. • Need for Addressing Inequalities: The study highlights that as the IT sector expands, it fails to recognize or mitigate social barriers that exclude marginalized communities, necessitating targeted reforms to promote inclusivity and equity. What is Meritocracy? • Meritocracy is the belief that individuals should succeed based on their abilities and efforts rather than their social background. In theory, it promotes equality by providing everyone with an equal chance to succeed. • However, this ideal is increasingly being challenged as a myth that fails to account for systemic inequalities, particularly in the context of caste in India. What does the NSSO data say about Caste Disparities in the IT Sector? The study draws from two NSSO survey rounds: the 78th (2020-21) and the 68th (2011-12): • Caste-Based Employment Disparities: Analysis of NSSO data reveals significant caste-based disparities in employment probabilities and wage earnings within the IT sector, challenging the notion of inclusivity in this industry. • Employment Probabilities: Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) have only a 10% probability of being employed in the IT sector, compared to 27% for upper castes. This disparity persists even after controlling for educational attainment and other factors.From 2011-12 to 2020-21, the probability gap widened, with lower caste groups experiencing an increase in their disadvantage from an 11% deficit to a 17% deficit despite overall growth in IT employment. • Wage Disparities: SC and Other Backward Classes (OBC) workers face wage differentials of 24.9% and 22.5%, respectively, compared to their upper caste counterparts, even when accounting for education and employment type. • Labour Market Segmentation: The findings align with labour market segmentation theory, indicating that lower castes are relegated to lower segments of the job market with limited opportunities for upward mobility. This reflects ongoing social barriers that hinder marginalized groups from fully participating in the growing IT sector. • Need for Addressing Inequalities: The study highlights that as the IT sector expands, it fails to recognize or mitigate social barriers that exclude marginalized communities, necessitating targeted reforms to promote inclusivity and equity. |
How do caste-based disparities affect opportunities for individuals in the IT sector?
- Structural Inequalities: Despite the IT sector’s rapid growth and opportunities, caste-based disparities remain deeply entrenched. Individuals from marginalized communities often face barriers that prevent them from accessing the same opportunities as their upper-caste counterparts.
- Hiring Practices: Many tech companies claim to hire based on merit; however, hiring practices often reflect existing societal biases. The recruitment process can inadvertently favor candidates from privileged backgrounds who have better access to resources such as quality education and networking opportunities.
- Representation Issues: While there are initiatives aimed at increasing diversity, the representation of lower-caste individuals in senior positions remains disproportionately low. This lack of representation perpetuates a cycle where decision-making power is concentrated among a homogenous group.
Is meritocracy a genuine principle for individuals in the Indian IT sector?
- False Narratives: The belief in meritocracy creates a false narrative that ignores the socio-economic contexts from which individuals emerge. It allows those in privileged positions to believe their success is solely due to their abilities, dismissing the advantages they may have had over others.
- Impact on Policy and Reform: This myth hinders meaningful policy reform aimed at addressing these disparities. When meritocracy is upheld as a guiding principle, it becomes challenging to advocate for affirmative action or other measures designed to level the playing field.
What reforms are necessary to address these disparities?
- Policy Reforms: Implementing policies that actively promote diversity and inclusion, ensuring equitable access to opportunities.
- Awareness Campaigns: Raising awareness about the impact of caste on career advancement and the need for structural changes within organizations.
- Support Systems: Establishing mentorship and support systems for individuals from marginalized communities to help them navigate barriers in their professional journeys.
