Is the Caste System as influential today in India as it was during the Gupta Empire?

No, it isn't.

Explanation:

Even though it might create a hindrance, Discriminatory treatment based on Caste was banned in India ever since 1948.

During the Gupta Empire, Caste is a life sentence. There was almost no way for people who were born in low caste to reach the peak in their life time. (The only eligible method is probably to became a fearless warrior that give a lot of victories for the empire).

These days, you can reach high status position in India even if you're born in a poor family. It's still  difficult, but it's still far easier compared to the past.

the right answer is the third one: turnpikes went short distances to connect markets. turnpikes, also known as toll roads, were very important for trade and transportation (of people, goods and products) in the 19th century, coinciding with the expansion towards the west. they contributed significantly to the economic development of the united states.