This essay talks about the meaning and concept of social stratification, main features of social inequality present in our Indian society today, causes of social stratification and effects on society.
Essay on Social Stratification | Meaning, Concept & Importance
Social stratification is called as the division in society across classes, castes and gender. It is a feature of every known human society. The concept of social stratification helps us in understanding the unequal distribution of power, resources and opportunities in society. It also exists because of the differences in people’s economic conditions, their education, race, ethnicity and other such factors. 
Social stratification is defined as a system by which a society ranks categories of people in a hierarchy.
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Features of Social Stratification
The main features of social inequality are:
1) Inequality in the distribution of resources and power among individuals and groups.
2) Lack of social mobility, whereby people are born into and stuck in their predetermined station in life.
3) Stratification creates conflict and division in society.
4) It limits people’s access to education, employment and other opportunities.
Types of Social Stratification
The main types of social stratification are:
1) Class Stratification: This is based on economic factors such as income, wealth and occupation. In India, the main classes are the upper class, the middle class and the lower class.
2) Caste Stratification: This is a form of social stratification that is based on one’s caste or Hindu social groups. In India, there are four main caste groups – Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras.
3) Ethnic Stratification: This is a form of social stratification that is based on one’s ethnicity or racial group. In India, there are many different ethnic groups such as the Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, etc.
4) Gender Stratification: This is a form of social stratification that is based on one’s gender. In India, women have always been at a disadvantage as compared to men in terms of education, employment and other opportunities.
Causes of Social Stratification:
There are many factors that contribute to social stratification. Some of the main causes are:
1) Economic factors: The unequal distribution of resources and power is one of the main causes of social stratification.
2) Caste system: The caste system is another major cause of social stratification in India.
3) Gender inequality: Gender inequality is another cause of social stratification. In India, women have always been at a disadvantage as compared to men in terms of education, employment and other opportunities.
4) Racial discrimination: Racial discrimination is another cause of social stratification. In India, there are many different ethnic groups such as the Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, etc. and each group is discriminated against by the other groups.
5) Religion: Religion is also a major cause of social stratification. In India, the Hindu caste system is a major source of social stratification.
Effects of Social Stratification:
Social stratification has many negative effects on society. Some of the main effects are:
1) It leads to conflict and division in society.
2) It limits people’s access to education, employment and other opportunities.
3) It increases poverty and inequality.
4) It decreases social mobility.
5) It hampers the overall development of society.
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Conclusion:
Social stratification is a major problem in India and it needs to be addressed urgently. The government needs to take measures to reduce inequality and provide equal opportunities to all sections of society. Only then can we hope for a better future for our country.