Synopsis The traditional stratification in Indian society was a caste-oriented one in which caste and class used to synchronize. Subsequent to political Independence this pattern has undergone redical changes resulting in the emergence of a new pattern of stratification in which the class is given primacy. It was this aspect of change in the stratification system that is analysed in this book. Usually the stratification and social mobility are studied through conventional methods whereas in this book an attempt whereas in this book an attempt is made to understand these processes through the dialectical approach. The book inquires the social stratification and social mobility in a detailed fashion. After giving an elaborate discussion on the traditional social stratification through inter-caste and intra-caste relations, the book throws light on the various factors responsible for social mobility and the consequent social stratification. The changing pattern of political, economic and occupational relations with reference to changing patterns of social stratification is presented in the book in a lucid manner.