India is defined by a caste system. Social hierarchy is very important and can, also, be very restrictive.
Poverty in India is widespread, as India is estimated to have a third of the world's poor. Some causes of poverty in India include a large population, low literacy rates (ability to read), the caste system in India which makes changing one’s social class difficult, and the role of women in Indian society. Compared to boys, far fewer girls are enrolled in school and many of them drop out in order to work and make money for their families.