Q. Consider the following statements regarding Jatis and Varna in the emerging society of the medieval period:

1. Smaller castes, or jatis, emerged within varnas.
2. Jatis, rather than varna, became the basis for organising society.

Which of the above is / are correct?
Answer: Both 1 and 2
Notes: As the economy and the needs of society grew, people with new skills were required. Smaller castes, or jatis, emerged within varnas. For example, new castes appeared amongst the Brahmanas. On the other hand, many tribes and social groups were taken into caste-based society and given the status of jatis. Specialised artisans - smiths, carpenters and masons - were also recognised as separate jatis by the Brahmanas. Jatis, rather than varna, became the basis for organising society.