Jat

The Jat (also Jaat) is a community traditionally associated with agriculture and pastoralism in the Indian subcontinent. They are most numerous in northern India—especially Punjab, Haryana, western Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan—and also in the Pakistani Punjab and Sindh. The term encompasses many clans and lineages, with Jat identity commonly organized around gotras or clans.

Origins and social structure are debated among scholars. Historical narratives often describe Jats as a north Indian pastoralist and agrarian group that rose to political prominence from the 15th to 18th centuries. Jats are divided into numerous clans, including Sinsinwar (associated with Bharatpur), Ahlawat, Dhillon, Khokhar, Randhawa, Jakhar, and others. Endogamy and clan affiliation have been typical features of Jat social organization.

Religiously, Jats in India are predominantly Hindu, with significant Sikh Jats, while in Pakistan a large portion are Muslim. Jat communities speak regional languages such as Punjabi, Haryanvi, and Rajasthani, and Urdu in parts of Pakistan. Culturally, Jats have been associated with agricultural rites, martial traditions, and regional folk practices.

Historically, Jat power rose in the 17th and 18th centuries as Jat chiefs and confederacies challenged governing authorities. The Bharatpur State, established by the Sinsinwar Jats under leaders such as Suraj Mal in the 18th century, became a notable regional power until British consolidation in the 19th century.

In modern times, Jats remain influential in several northern Indian states as farmers, landowners, and in public service and politics. They are recognized as an Other Backward Class (OBC) in various states, reflecting regional social and political dynamics. In Pakistan, Jats form a major rural social group in Punjab and Sindh and participate in agriculture and politics.