Gender Religion and Caste Class 10 Notes

Gender

• Social Division: Divides people based on socially constructed roles and expectations, not biology.
• Patriarchy: A system where men hold more power and are seen as superior to women. This can lead to discrimination in areas like:
  • Education: Fewer girls attending school or completing higher education.
  • Work: Limited job opportunities and lower wages for women.
  • Family: Unequal distribution of housework and decision-making.

Religion

• India's Stance: A secular country, meaning no official religion. The Constitution guarantees:
  • Freedom of religion: Right to practice, preach, and convert (or not).
  • No discrimination based on religion.
• Religion and Politics: Religion can influence politics, but:
  • Communalism: Using religion to divide people and create conflict is harmful.
  • The goal is peaceful coexistence and respecting religious diversity.

Caste

• Historical Grouping: Traditionally divided people based on occupations.
• Caste System Issues:
  • Limited social mobility: Born into a caste, difficult to change.
  • Discrimination: Upper castes hold more privilege and power.
  • Reservations: Policies to uplift disadvantaged castes in education and jobs.
• Caste Today:
  • Changing: New caste groups emerging, social mobility increasing (slowly).
  • Caste-based discrimination persists and requires ongoing efforts for equality.