Caste distinctions pervade still affecting Indian society. While the relevance of caste is being disputed, I think there can be no doubt that caste-based identities have a deep rooting and vast influence. In 2025, with more than 3,000 castes and over 25,000 sub-castes existing in India, certain communities were long granted more power because of their socio-political stature, educational attainment, and contribution to the country.

1. Brahmins

Considered to be a high-class caste of scholars and priests, Brahmins had varied opportunities for status elevation throughout history. They took utmost pride in their superiority in education, religion, and politics. Today, in intellectual and academic spheres, these Brahmin castes are one of the dominant communities in states like UP, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Some of the popular surnames are Sharma, Pandit, and Joshi.

2. Rajputs

The Rajputs are known for their feats of valor and royal pride. They claim descent from ancient warrior clans and enjoy considerable strength in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. Families that bear surnames such as Rathore, Chauhan, and Rana retain their martial tradition and are unashamed of their heritage, with many members now socially and politically active.

3. Jats

Jats are widely recognized for their physical strength and unity. Predominantly agriculturalists, they are mainly found in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. With a rich cultural past, they have a strong voice in regional and national politics. Notable surnames include Dhillon, Sandhu, and Grewal.

4. Bhumihars

Predominantly landowners and scholars, Bhumihars have significant political clout in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Despite being less discussed in mainstream media, they hold key roles in local governance. Surnames like Mishra, Sharma, and Chaudhary are common within this group.

5. Sikhs

Those adherents of Sikhism are famous for its peculiar identity and spirit of service. Considering that they are settled in Punjab, they have worldwide fame in agriculture, military, and politics. The majority of Sikhs carry the surnames Singh and Kaur, basing their identity on the foundation of religion and culture.

6. Kurmi

It is a community that constitutes the backbone of the Indian agricultural economy. Most Kurmis reside in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh and are renowned as one hardworking agricultural community. Increasingly more active in politics, they commonly use surnames like Patel and Verma.

7. Marathas

Hailing from Maharashtra, Marathas look back upon their lineage to the Maratha Empire and to Shivaji Maharaj. Appearing in a way of landholding, their impressions can yet be traced in state politics. They continue to nourish their cultural pride and remain significantly influential in administration.

8. Meenas

Earlier a tribal group, the Meenas of Rajasthan have risen in polity with their Scheduled Tribe status, which in turn has given them access to education, jobs, and government positions, making them one of the most empowered communities within the state.

9. Reddys

Reddys, mostly residing in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, have undergone the transition from land possession to politics and business. Their financial power and educational progress have immensely contributed to their influence all across Southern India.

10. Gujjars

Once a pastoralist-and-farming community, the Gujjars have been steadily increasingly vocal in agrarian politics. Their recent push for the recognition of their social and political identities has led to the elevation of their standing in Rajasthan, Haryana, and Jammu & Kashmir.