Ethnicity in India is a complex and multifaceted issue, shaped by the country's diverse history, culture, and social structure. India is home to over 2,000 distinct ethnic groups, which are spread across its vast geographical expanse. The manifestation of ethnicity in India can be seen in various forms, including linguistic, religious, cultural, and regional identities, which often lead to demands for autonomy or separation. These ethnic groups, while contributing to India’s rich cultural mosaic, also present challenges to national integration and development.

One of the primary manifestations of ethnicity in India is in the form of linguistic diversity. The Constitution of India recognizes 22 languages under the Eighth Schedule, with several other languages also spoken by significant populations. Ethnic groups often align themselves with specific languages, which become a key marker of identity. For instance, the demand for the creation of linguistic states, such as the formation of Andhra Pradesh in 1953, and later the reorganization of states based on linguistic lines in the 1960s, was largely driven by ethnic and linguistic concerns. The importance of language in identity formation has also led to regional movements like the Tamil demand for Tamil as the official language in the 1960s and the continued struggles of speakers of other languages like Gujarati, Marathi, and Punjabi.

Religion is another significant aspect of ethnicity in India. India is home to a variety of religious communities, including Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Buddhists, Jains, and others. These religious identities are often intertwined with ethnic identities, creating challenges related to social harmony and political integration. In some cases, such as in the case of the Kashmir Valley, religion and ethnicity have become