What is the term for large landowners who employ agricultural labourers and dominate rural society economically and politically?

The correct answer is - Proprietary caste.

Key Points

• Proprietary caste
  • The term proprietary caste refers to large landowners who employ agricultural laborers.
  • They dominate rural society both economically and politically by controlling substantial lands and resources.
  • Their prominent status allows them to influence local governance and sociopolitical dynamics.

Additional Information

• Dominant Castes
  • Dominant castes, often synonymous with proprietary castes, possess economic clout and political influence due to their control over extensive agrarian land.
  • Examples include Jats in Punjab, Kammas in Andhra Pradesh, and Lingayats in Karnataka.
• Agricultural Laborers
  • Agricultural laborers work on the farms owned by proprietary castes, often under terms that reinforce economic disparities.
  • They may face exploitative working conditions and lack security in employment.
• Rural Power Structure
  • The power structure in rural areas is heavily influenced by land ownership, with proprietary castes dictating terms in both social and political spheres.
  • This hierarchical setup often leads to the marginalization of lower caste groups and perpetuates social inequities.