UPSC Mains 2026 · GS I · Q8 · 10 marks · 150 words

Unity in diversity remains the defining feature of Indian society despite the challenges from communalism and regionalism. Comment.

हिन्दी में

साम्प्रदायिकता और क्षेत्रवाद की चुनौतियों के बावजूद विविधता में एकता भारतीय समाज की मुख्य विशेषता बनी हुई है। टिप्पणी कीजिए।

How a topper answered the closest question

Toppers wrote this one in a test series: “Unity without uniformity and diversity without fragmentation is the essence of unity in diversity. Elaborate. Also explain why diversity is considered an asset for Indian society.”

Ayan JainAIR 16 · CSE 2023 · 147 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening

India is a multi-cultural, pluralistic nation yet has integrity and unity.

Essence of Unity in Diversity:

⊕ Unity without uniformity Thus everyone can be Indian as well as part of their community simultaneously.

II. Diversity without fragmentation

Body · points and prose

t assimilated/integrated into the majority.

  • Each community has own personal laws and traditions.
  • All communities have fraternity and oneness.

Thus everyone can be Indian as well as part of their community simultaneously.

II. Diversity without fragmentation

diagram

  • Lines pointing to:
    • India has territorial integrity.
    • Different communities differ in language, religion etc but are a part of India.
    • Every group protects its culture within the broader identity of 'Indian'.
    • states are not divided on linguistic or religious grounds and so have diversity.
    • Unity and integrity of India is the priority over any differences.

Why diversity is an asset

(1) It brings richness to culture eg. Large number of festivals, dishes.

(2) Different communities learn and adopt features from each other. (3) Brings heterogeneity to society. (4) Ensures that everyone is valued and has their unique contributions to society. (5) Experience around the world has shown diverse societies to be more resilient. (6) Enhances India's brand image as a pluralistic democracy. (7) Invites tourism to explore the diversity. (8) Teaches tolerance to all people. (9) Synergy of various cultures allows the nation to prosper. (10) Helps build international relations.

Close · a summary

Thus diversity is a key asset of India for which it has received international praise.

How toppers approach this question, and more on its topic: open the question.

Toppers’ answers to other close questions

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Main) Examination 2026, General Studies Paper I, Q8. The paper on upsc.gov.in. Themes and links to toppers’ answers are by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.