Which of the following characteristics of caste has largely remained unaffected by modernisation and change?

Endogamy

The correct answer is Option (3) → Endogamy

• Association with traditional occupation: Modernization has led to significant changes in occupational patterns. Individuals are no longer strictly confined to the traditional occupations associated with their caste.
• Hierarchy: The rigid caste hierarchy has faced challenges due to factors like increased social mobility, affirmative action policies, and growing awareness about caste discrimination. While it hasn't been completely eradicated, its influence has diminished in some spheres.
• Commensality: Traditional practices related to shared meals and food consumption have also undergone changes due to urbanization, inter-caste interactions, and changing social norms.

Endogamy, the practice of marrying within one's caste, remains a persistent feature in many communities despite modernization. While there are increasing instances of inter-caste marriages, societal pressures and expectations surrounding endogamy continue to be strong in certain sections of society.

NCERT text"  Not surprisingly, it was in the cultural and domestic spheres that caste has proved strongest. Endogamy, or the practice of marrying within the caste, remained largely unaffected by modernisation and change. Even today, most marriages take place within caste boundaries, although there are more intercaste marriages. While some boundaries may have become more flexible or porous, the borders between groups of castes of similar socio-economic status are still heavily patrolled. "