Question

Which of the following principles are applied to maintain caste-based restrictions?
(A) Birth
(B) Marriage
(C) Food Sharing
(D) Occupation
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only
• B. (A), (B) and (C) only
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D)
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The correct answer to the question regarding the principles applied to maintain caste-based restrictions is (A), (B), (C) and (D). Here's a breakdown of why each principle is included: 

• Birth: Caste is an ascribed status in many societies, meaning it is inherited by birth. The social group you are born into dictates your caste.
• Marriage: Endogamy, or marriage within one's caste, is a common practice to maintain caste lines and restrictions.
• Food Sharing: Food is often shared within one's caste, and restrictions are placed on sharing with other castes to maintain social boundaries.
• Occupation: Traditionally, certain occupations are reserved for specific castes, reinforcing social hierarchy and division based on caste lines.

Answer 2

The caste system in India is maintained through a set of restrictions and practices that are applied across different aspects of life. These principles help to maintain the rigid structure of the caste system. Let's review the principles:

(A) Birth - Caste is traditionally determined by birth, meaning a person inherits their caste based on their family and lineage. This principle is central to the caste system.

(B) Marriage - Marriage is restricted within the same caste or social group, which is known as endogamy. Marrying outside one's caste is often discouraged and can lead to social sanctions.

(C) Food Sharing - Food sharing is a significant aspect of caste-based restrictions. People from higher castes typically do not share food or accept food from those in lower castes, maintaining social and ritualistic distinctions.

(D) Occupation - Occupation is often linked to caste, with people of certain castes historically assigned specific jobs or tasks (for example, the Brahmins were priests, while the Dalits were traditionally assigned tasks like cleaning or leather working).

Thus, all four principles (Birth, Marriage, Food Sharing, and Occupation) are applied to maintain caste-based restrictions.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 4: (A), (B), (C) and (D).