Critically examine the factors responsible for continuation of "Caste Consciousness" in the Indian "collective conscience".

⊙ Occupational Earmarking - Today caste consciousness and its remnants are observed how Valmiki, Ghasi, Hadi castes are segregated for sweepers' work or manual scavenging or cleaning of septic tanks. They often die cleaning manholes due to lack of safety gear

⊙ Entrenched caste notions perpetuated through Socialisation - recently village in UP, school students refused to eat mid day meal as it was prepared by lower caste women, when asked about reason children argued that since everybody refuses, we do it too.

This reflects deep entrenched and subtle discrimination that is taught to children early on

⊙ Andre Beteille considers caste is on decline but only thing that makes it linger is media and politics.

⊙ Politicisation of caste (Rajani Kothari) that allows deprived sections to assert their rights perpetuates caste consciousness.

⊙ Post Mandalisation of politics, even Dominant castes today assert their rights as they feel state is ignoring their rights and unduly caring for SCs and STs. Eg Jat, Maratha, Patel agitation deepens caste loyalties.

⊙ Caste Consciousness is also resilient because certain class interest characteristics are reflected

Eg Jat Mahasabha is not only a mobilisation of Jats but also a peasant organisation.

⊙ Historically Brahmins, took up educations and Govt jobs, hence they acquire top posts in almost all fields despite spread of education.

⊙ Dalit Identity and Consciousness has deepened after Dalit mobilisation to mend for historical injustices.