An Exploratory study of caste-based DEI Policy in India

Bio : Shankar M.Mepparambath currently serves in a multifaceted role as a Mentor in Research and Training at CARES, Bangalore. He dedicates his expertise to nurturing minds and fostering knowledge. Additionally, he extends his proficiency as an adjunct and visiting faculty member at RIMS, Bangalore, and NTPC’s NBS, Noida, specializing in Analytics and Research Methodology. His area of interest is studying the impact of Caste, Religion, and Language in Indian society. His work is publicly accessible and can be explored at https://github.com/Shankar24. His dedication to exploring socio-cultural dynamics is evident through his varied academic pursuits and mentorship roles

Project Outline: “The study explores and examines Diversity, Equality and Inclusiveness (DEI) in private organisations, from gender and caste perspectives in terms of policy and practices. It examines the role of DEI as a mediator between psychological safety and workplace dignity. The study uses a mixed research method to explore DEI. Qualitative research methodology is adopted, and quantitative research methodology is applied to examine the relationship among the study constructs. Qualitative techniques included an in-depth interview method; nine informants were selected, belonging to various sectors such as banking, academics, manufacturing etc. Employees working in the private sector are the unit of analysis. The study applied a non-probability convenience sample method to collect the quantitative data, which was generated using a structured questionnaire method. 75 respondents filled the questionnaire. The qualitative findings showed that gender-based DEI is the most common; caste is still invisible in the corporate workspace,but it is living in a disguised form. Informants agreed the paradox between meritocracy and inclusiveness. However, they opted for meritocracy for core areas and Inclusiveness for the non-core business. Other DEI, such as People with Disability and Neuro, is slowly getting attention. On quantitative findings, DEI is a mediator between psychological safety and workplace dignity. On textual analysis broadly, four topics are formed. The study has limitations in terms of sample adequacy for statistical generalisation. A qualitative study would not get the information from face to face; all the informants are approached through Zoom. Respondents were recruited from the researcher’s known circle.”