Discuss the changing nature of structure of political elites.

Early Phase (1947-1980s): The Dominance of the ‘First Generation’

The initial phase of Indian politics saw the dominance of elites drawn from the freedom movement – largely upper-caste, educated, and often belonging to established landowning families. These individuals, steeped in nationalist ideology and possessing a pan-Indian outlook, shaped the early institutions and policies of the country. Recruitment to political office was largely through party structures, with the Indian National Congress enjoying a near monopoly on power.

• Social Background: Predominantly upper castes (Brahmins, Rajputs, etc.) and landed gentry.
• Recruitment: Through party organization, family connections, and nationalist credentials.
• Ideology: Primarily Nehruvian socialism, with a focus on state-led development and secularism.
• Examples: Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Rajendra Prasad.

The Mandal Phase and the Rise of OBC Elites (1990s)

The implementation of the Mandal Commission recommendations in 1990 marked a watershed moment. This led to the reservation of seats in government jobs and educational institutions for Other Backward Classes (OBCs), significantly altering the composition of political elites. The rise of regional parties, often representing specific caste or community interests, further challenged the dominance of the traditional elites.

• Impact of Mandal Commission (1990): Increased representation of OBCs in political institutions.
• Rise of Regional Parties: Parties like Samajwadi Party, Rashtriya Janata Dal, and Bahujan Samaj Party gained prominence, representing marginalized communities.
• Shift in Ideology: Increased focus on social justice and identity politics.
• Example: Mulayam Singh Yadav, Lalu Prasad Yadav, Mayawati.

Liberalization and the Emergence of New Economic Elites (Post-1991)

The economic liberalization policies of 1991 ushered in a new era of economic growth and globalization. This led to the emergence of a new class of economic elites – industrialists, entrepreneurs, and professionals – who began to exert increasing influence on the political system. The role of money in politics also increased significantly during this period.

• Economic Liberalization (1991): Rise of a new class of economic elites.
• Increased Role of Money in Politics: Growing influence of corporate funding and lobbying.
• Shift in Policy Focus: Greater emphasis on economic growth and market-oriented reforms.
• Example: The increasing influence of business lobbies on policy-making.

The Era of Populism and Social Media (2014-Present)

The recent period has witnessed the rise of populist leaders and the increasing importance of social media in shaping political discourse. This has led to a new style of political leadership, characterized by direct communication with the masses and a focus on emotional appeals. The traditional gatekeepers of political information – the media and political parties – have lost some of their influence.

• Rise of Populist Leaders: Leaders who appeal directly to the masses and bypass traditional political structures.
• Impact of Social Media: Increased use of social media for political campaigning and mobilization.
• Decline of Traditional Media: Reduced influence of traditional media outlets.
• Example: The use of social media by political parties during elections.

Phase	Dominant Elite Group	Key Characteristics	Driving Factors
1947-1980s	Upper Caste, Nationalist Leaders	Pan-Indian outlook, Nehruvian Socialism	Freedom Movement, Early Nation-Building
1990s	OBC Leaders, Regional Party Leaders	Social Justice, Identity Politics	Mandal Commission, Rise of Regionalism
Post-1991	Economic Elites, Business Leaders	Economic Growth, Market-Oriented Reforms	Liberalization, Globalization
2014-Present	Populist Leaders, Social Media Influencers	Direct Communication, Emotional Appeals	Social Media Revolution, Changing Political Landscape