Despite centuries of social reform, constitutional safeguards, and economic progress, the caste system continues to significantly influence modern India's social fabric. Originating from ancient Varna–Jāti hierarchies, the system evolved into a deeply embedded structure with over 3,000 castes and 25,000 sub-castes today.

While legal frameworks, like Articles 15 and 17, abolished untouchability and discrimination, systemic bias persists. Affirmative action helped, but socioeconomic disparities and cultural discrimination remain for many.

Yet, the landscape is shifting. Urbanisation, education, and economic growth are catalysing mobility and weakening traditional caste barriers. Movements like Sanskritisation and political assertions by Dalit groups have reshaped caste identities and community structures.

Surveys and projects like Telangana’s 2024 Caste Survey and proposed national caste census reflect growing demands for granular data to inform social justice policies.

At the same time, digital inequality and workplace exclusion remain caste-linked. Calls for inclusion of caste in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion frameworks are gaining ground.