Read the passage and answer following questions.

Assertions of tribal identity are on the rise. This can be laid at the door of the emergence of a middle class within the tribal society. With the emergence of this class in particular, issues of culture, tradition, livelihood, even control over land and resources, as well as demands for a share in the benefits of the projects of modernity, have become an integral part of the articulation of identity among the tribes. There is, therefore, a new consciousness among tribes now coming from its middle classes. The middle classes themselves are a consequence of modern education and modem occupations, aided in turn by the reservation policies.

Which class is influencing the new consciousness among the tribes?

Middle class

The correct answer is Option (2) → Middle class

The passage directly states that the "new consciousness among tribes" is coming from the emergence of a middle class within tribal society. The middle class is a product of modern education, occupations, and reservation policies.