In Indian society, while various forms of discrimination exist, the two most fundamental and historically entrenched axes of social discrimination are Caste and Gender. These two systems have profoundly shaped social hierarchies, access to resources, and individual life chances for centuries.

1. Caste: Caste is a unique and deeply hierarchical system of social stratification, traditionally based on birth, which historically determined an individual's occupation, social status, and marriage partners. It assigned individuals to endogamous groups (jatis) within a broader varna system (Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra, and the 'outcastes' or Dalits). Discrimination based on caste has historically manifested as untouchability, denial of access to education, land, and public spaces, and severe social and economic exploitation.

2. Gender: Gender discrimination refers to the pervasive inequalities and biases based on sex, leading to the subordination of women in almost all spheres of life. This patriarchal system has historically limited women's autonomy, mobility, access to education, economic opportunities, political participation, and decision-making power within families and society. It manifests in issues like female infanticide/feticide, unequal division of labor, gender pay gaps, violence against women, and underrepresentation in leadership roles.

Are they changing? Both caste and gender as axes of discrimination are undergoing significant, albeit complex and often contradictory, changes:

Changes in Caste Discrimination:

• Legal Abolition and Affirmative Action: The Indian Constitution formally abolished untouchability and introduced affirmative action policies (reservations) in education, employment, and political representation for Scheduled Castes (Dalits) and Scheduled Tribes. This has led to greater social mobility and political empowerment for many individuals from these communities.
• Urbanization and Modernization: In urban areas, the anonymity of city life and the demands of a modern economy have somewhat diluted the overt practice of caste discrimination in public spaces and workplaces. Inter-caste marriages, though still rare, are becoming more accepted in certain progressive circles.
• Political Mobilization: Lower castes have increasingly mobilized politically, forming their own parties and asserting their rights, leading to greater representation and a challenge to traditional power structures.

Persistence of Caste Discrimination:

• Subtle Discrimination: While overt untouchability is less common, subtle forms of discrimination persist in housing, social interactions, and access to services, particularly in rural areas.
• Endogamy: Caste remains a primary factor in marriage alliances, reinforcing caste boundaries.
• Caste-based Violence: Atrocities and violence against Dalits continue, especially in rural areas, often when they challenge traditional hierarchies or assert their rights.
• Economic Disparities: Significant economic disparities along caste lines persist, with Dalits and Adivasis often at the bottom of the socio-economic ladder.

Changes in Gender Discrimination:

• Legal Reforms and Awareness: Numerous laws have been enacted to protect women's rights (e.g., against domestic violence, sexual harassment, equal pay). Increased awareness campaigns and women's movements have brought gender issues to the forefront of public discourse.
• Education and Workforce Participation: There has been a significant increase in female literacy and enrollment in higher education. More women are entering the workforce, including in non-traditional fields, and achieving leadership positions.
• Political Representation: Reservations for women in Panchayati Raj institutions (local self-governance) have led to greater female participation in local politics.

Persistence of Gender Discrimination:

• Patriarchal Attitudes: Deeply ingrained patriarchal attitudes continue to limit women's autonomy, perpetuate gender roles, and contribute to the 'son preference' phenomenon.
• Violence Against Women: India continues to grapple with high rates of violence against women, including sexual assault, domestic violence, and honor killings.
• Economic Inequality: The gender pay gap persists, and women are disproportionately represented in the informal sector with less job security and lower wages. Their participation in the formal workforce, despite educational gains, remains lower than men's.
• Unequal Burden of Care: Women continue to bear the primary responsibility for unpaid care work, limiting their time and opportunities for education, employment, and leisure.

In conclusion, while both caste and gender discrimination are undergoing transformative changes due to legal frameworks, economic development, and social movements, they remain fundamental axes of inequality in Indian society. The nature of discrimination has evolved, often becoming more subtle or intersecting with other identities like class and religion, but their pervasive influence on social structures and individual lives continues to be a critical challenge for achieving a truly equitable society.