Changes in Livelihood and Caste Relations in Udipur

Abstract

There have been changes in the economic and social relations in Nepal. The market has been providing opportunities for choosing livelihood options. Livelihood diversification, particularly non-farm, appears to be growing in extent and importance in recent years. Although local wage labor has increased in farm sector, agriculture is not a path out of poverty. The relationship between caste and hereditary occupations has been less significant and there has occurred a significant shift in the bases of power. There is an increase in class consciousness and a decrease in caste consciousness; wealth is replacing birth as the basis of social power and prestige. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hjsa.v6i0.10690   Himalayan Journal of Sociology and Anthropology Vol.6 2014: 86-102