Savarna groups dominate commerce and industry in India

Savarna groups dominate commerce and industry in India, significantly marginalizing OBC, SC, and ST communities. Data shows that SCs and STs own only 11.4% and 5.4% of non-agricultural enterprises, respectively, despite their larger population share

This underrepresentation is compounded by systemic barriers such as limited access to education and capital, which perpetuate economic disparities

 Savarna cultural hegemony further obscures caste-based inequalities by framing success as merit-based, ignoring the advantages accrued through caste privilege

 Thus, OBC, SC, and ST groups remain largely excluded from meaningful participation in the economic landscape.

The dominance of Savarnas has profoundly shaped India's economic landscape by perpetuating caste-based inequalities. Savarnas control significant resources, leading to inequitable access to finance for lower castes, which stifles their entrepreneurial potential and contributes to resource misallocation across the economy 

. This systemic bias results in a jobless growth phenomenon, where economic expansion does not translate into employment opportunities for marginalized groups 

. Additionally, historical advantages in education and land ownership have allowed Savarnas to maintain their economic supremacy, further entrenching social hierarchies and limiting upward mobility for OBC, SC, and ST communities

OBC, Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) entrepreneurs in India face several significant barriers:

1. Access to Finance: SC and ST-owned enterprises often struggle to access institutional finance, with over 90% relying on informal sources, limiting their ability to grow
   
   
2. Educational Backwardness: Low literacy rates and inadequate education hinder entrepreneurial skills and awareness of available opportunities and protections
   
   
3. Market Access: SC and ST entrepreneurs encounter difficulties in marketing their products, often compelled to sell at lower prices due to lack of bargaining power and market networks
   
   
4. Informal Sector Employment: Many SC and ST enterprises operate in the informal sector, which restricts their growth potential and access to government support
   
   
5. Social Discrimination: Although less pronounced in urban areas, caste-based discrimination still affects business operations and networking opportunities

Cultural and social capital significantly influence business ownership patterns. Cultural capital, as defined by Pierre Bourdieu, includes intangible assets like knowledge, skills, and education that can enhance social mobility and success in business

 Those with higher cultural capital often have better access to resources and networks, facilitating entrepreneurship.Social capital refers to the relationships and networks that provide support and opportunities. Strong social ties can lead to increased trust and collaboration, essential for business sustainability

. Together, these forms of capital create disparities in business ownership, favoring those from privileged backgrounds while marginalizing others.

Addressing caste-based disparities in enterprise ownership in India requires a multi-faceted approach:

1. Affirmative Action Policies: Implement targeted affirmative action similar to successful models in other countries, ensuring SC and ST entrepreneurs receive necessary support and resources
   
   
2. Access to Finance: Enhance financial support mechanisms, such as improving the implementation of initiatives like Stand Up India, and explore alternative funding options to reduce reliance on informal credit sources
   
   
3. Network Integration: Facilitate the inclusion of SC and ST entrepreneurs in broader business networks, encouraging larger corporations to integrate these businesses into their supply chains
   
   
4. Education and Skill Development: Invest in education and vocational training tailored for marginalized communities to improve their entrepreneurial skills and market readiness
   
   
5. Policy Alignment: Align economic empowerment initiatives with social justice goals to ensure that advancements in the market contribute to reducing social inequalities

To increase SC and ST participation in urban businesses, several policies can be implemented:

1. Public Procurement Targets: Ensure a mandated 4% procurement from SC/ST enterprises by government agencies, enhancing their market access and visibility 
2. Financial Support Schemes: Expand initiatives like the Stand-Up India scheme, providing soft loans and capital subsidies to SC/ST entrepreneurs for equipment and operational costs 
3. Capacity Building Programs: Implement skill development and entrepreneurship training tailored for SC/ST communities to enhance their business acumen and technical skills 
4. Mentorship and Networking: Establish mentorship programs linking SC/ST entrepreneurs with established businesses and industry leaders to facilitate knowledge sharing and networking opportunities 
5. Awareness Campaigns: Conduct outreach activities to inform SC/ST communities about available support schemes, resources, and best practices in entrepreneurship 

These measures can help create a more inclusive economic environment for SC and ST entrepreneurs.