Final answer:
The Desai and Dubey article highlights social inequality and the lack of social mobility as major disadvantages of the Hindu caste system. Despite its abolishment, remnants of the system continue to influence socio-economic dynamics in India.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Hindu caste system, which historically contributed to the socio-economic stability in ancient India by assigning roles based on hereditary classes, has been examined for its disadvantages in the Desai and Dubey article. One major drawback of the caste system is the entrenchment of social inequality. The rigid structure of this system perpetuated extreme poverty and exclusion, especially for those in the lowest castes, such as the 'Untouchables' or Dalits. Furthermore, the lack of social mobility prevented individuals from changing their societal status, which hindered economic and educational opportunities. Although the system has been officially dismantled, remnants of its hierarchical classification persist, affecting the socio-economic dynamics in modern India, especially in rural areas.