UPSC Mains 2017 · GS I · Q11 · 15 marks · 250 words

The spirit of tolerance and love is not only an interesting feature of Indian society from very early times, but it is also playing an important part at the present. Elaborate.

हिन्दी में

सहिष्णुता एवं प्रेम की भावना न केवल अति प्राचीन समय से ही भारतीय समाज का एक रोचक अभिलक्षण रही है, अपितु वर्तमान में भी यह एक महत्त्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभा रही है । सविस्तार स्पष्ट कीजिए ।

Salient FeaturesSecularism

How a topper answered the closest question

Toppers wrote this one in a test series: “How will you explain that the values of tolerance and inclusiveness which were deeply embedded in ancient Indian society continue to persist and flourish in the present times?”

Shreya TyagiAIR 123 · CSE 2022 · 275 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening · a definition

Ancient India was defined by the ethos of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (The world is one family) and 'Sarva Dharma Sambhava' (equal respect for all religions). These values were deeply embedded in our civilizational consciousness, as evidenced by the Edicts of Ashoka, the syncretism of the Bhakti and Sufi movements, and the accommodation of diverse cultures throughout history.

Body · points

Persistence in Modern India

These values continue to flourish in contemporary India through several mechanisms:

  • Constitutional Framework: The Indian Constitution serves as a modern manifestation of these ancient ideals. Articles 25-28 (Right to Freedom of Religion) and provisions for minority rights (Articles 29-30) institutionalize the ancient spirit of tolerance.
  • Secularism: Unlike Western models, Indian secularism is characterized by a principled distance, supporting all religions equally, which aligns with the historical tradition of accepting different paths to truth.
  • Social Fabric and Pluralism: Despite challenges, the everyday life of ordinary Indians remains remarkably pluralistic. The celebration of festivals across religious lines, inter-community weddings, and the existence of a diverse media and civil society sustain this inclusivity.
  • Democratic Process: The periodic nature of democratic elections requires political parties to reach out to diverse demographic groups, forcing a level of accommodation that keeps the spirit of inclusivity alive.

Challenges and Way Forward

Close · a way forward

While instances of intolerance occasionally rise, they are often checked by the resilience of our democratic institutions and the vocal disapproval of a vibrant civil society. To ensure these values continue to flourish, it is essential to promote secular education, uphold the rule of law, and encourage inter-faith dialogue, ensuring that the ancient wisdom of coexistence remains the guiding light for the future of India.

1 more topper’s answer to this question, part by part, and how they all approached it: open the question.

Toppers’ answers to other close questions

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Main) Examination 2017, General Studies Paper I, Q11. The paper on upsc.gov.in. Themes and links to toppers’ answers are by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.