Why Study Indian Society - General Structure of Society Answers
To develop the perspective on the Indian Social System
To sensitize the government / public officials on discourses of Society
To apply best practices of governance in the eradication of social problems
Let's Talk Business
Marks can vary from 40 to 90 in the main examination
Marks 2021 80 Marks
Meta Content
Sample Facts and Figures & Extra
NFHS Report No 5 - Sex Ratio in Favour of Females
Its Accuracy Questioned
933 Census 970 NFHS - Disparity
NFHS 1033 New Census Data is Awaited
WHO at Birth Should 952 wrt 1000 according to NFHS NFHS Sex Ration NFHS Birth Rate SC ST Demography
Statistical Democracy
Social Demography
Constitutional Provisions for Tribals
Definition : 366, 342
Education and Economic : 15, 16, 46, 335
Political Empowerment : 330 , 332, 243 D & 243 T
Administrative Efficiency : 5th & 6th Schedule
Cultural : 29
Agency : 338 A
Tribals
25 Years of PESA & FRA
Questions from Previous Years in Mains
Discuss the various social problems which originated out of the speedy process of urbanization in India
Critically examine the effects of globalization on the aged population in India
Why do some of the most prosperous regions of India have an adverse sex ratio for women? Give your arguments
Life Cycle of Join System
Discuss the Positive and Negative Effect of Globalisation on Women in India
How do the Indian debates on secularism differ from the debates in the west?
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
Elaborate : You Have to Consider it Correct and then Explain
Distinguish between religiousness and communalism giving one example of how the former has got transformed into the latter in independent India
One Example : Babri Masjid Demolition
"Globalization is generally said to promote cultural homogenization but due to this cultural specificities appear to be strengthened in the Indian society.‟ Elucidate etc
Elucidate : Give Example to Explain your Concept
How is Indian Concept of Secularism Different from Western Secularism
Are we losing our Local IDentity due to Global Identity
Answer Writing Practise in class
Explain the Paradox on one hand sex ratio has become skewed in favour of women in India, whereas on the other hand sex ratio at birth is still below the minimum threshold:
Introduction
Statistics to establish the Paradox: NFHS-5: Sex Ratio = 1020/1000; Sex Ratio at Birth: 929/1000
Body
Why has the sex ratio has improved?
Better availability/accessibility of health infrastructure
Various government schemes with respect to Pre, peri and postnatal care
Better adoption of family planning methods; delay in marriage age; women seeking labour market opportunities - leading to delay in pregnancy and decline in MMR
Impact of various women movements and awareness wrt reproductive rights and empowerment
Efforts of government to ensure safety/security
Why Sex ratio at birth still below the minimum threshold
Girl child treated as a social liability (since associated with the honour of family + absence of safety)
Girl child treated as an economic liability
The low status of the girl child due to patrilineal and lack of proper implementation of PCPNDT Act
Although urban educated couples adopt family planning within that, there is the preference for the male children (problem of cultural lag)
Misuse of technology for sex-selective abortion
The desire for the male child (social support and performance of rituals)
Conclusion
Gender sensitisation; cultivate gender equality norms; ensure women safety, etc
Explain the Paradox, that on one hand sex ratio has become skewed in favour of women and on the other hand sex ratio at birth is still is below the minimum thresholdHow do you explain the statistics that show that the sex ratio in Tribes in India is more favourable to women than the sex ratio among Scheduled Castes?
Sex Ratio among tribes = 990; sex ratio among SC's = 945
Linking - Sex ratio among tribes is better largely due to gender parity; lack of access to sex determination techniques
Body - Matrilocal and Matrilineality; culture of bride price (not considered as economic liability)
In fact, Labour Force Participation of women in ST's (44%) double to that in the mainstream (23%)
In mainstream societies, caste stratification exists; over the period of time the status of women among SC has declined due to blind imitation of the culture of the upper caste to improve their ritual status (this concept is known as Sanskritisation)
SCs are imbibing the tenets of patriarchy because of which the sex ratio is less than STs
Good Conclusion
Law determines the direction in which society should move, but its the culture which determines the direction in which society actually moves
by Andre Bete
Impact of Globalisation on
Impact of Globalisation of Joint Family
Data
Due to Globalisation, there has been emergence of new value system which has reduced the religious significance of marriage. This Led to De-Stigmatisation of Divorce and Separation → from Straight Monogamy to Serial Monogamy
Due to Globalization, there is Emergence of Diverse Job Opportunities, as a result both H & W and are emigrating to the new place wrt job
Mind Map
Structure
The disintegration of Joint families
Disintegration of Household and not family
The emergence of the new family
nuclear family with extended ties
property division occurred, but marital with blood relations occurred, ceremonies attended
single parent
exercise of parenthood
no stigma to divorce, abortion, separation, legal notions
Pre marital not a taboo
surrogacy
Secularisation
female-headed
male specific distress migration
cohabitation/live indual career (both work - both h & W working)conjugal symmetrical (equal status to both men and women)
Interpersonal Relationships
Democratic Parenting seen over Authoritative Parenting
Democratic relationship and status of women has improved
Ties with extended family have improved due to social media
Functions
Economic Function of Family has Changed
The economic function has changed due to the emergence of industrialisation
It has led to a factory system of production and family is now reduced to the unit of consumption
Educational Role of Family
Also, with globalisation, there are diverse job opportunities that have led to the specialised institution of knowledge and have changed the education role of joint family
Role of Family for Spouse Selection
The role of the family with respect to spouse selection with respect to spouse selection
Conclusion
However, with respect to the primary socialisation agency of social control (it is still performed)
Poverty, Health, Hunger, Poverty & Developmental Issues (will be covered with Social Justice)
How to Prepare a Social Concept - A Basic Outline
Effects of Globalization on Indian Society - (Home Assignment & Class Topics in the Last)
Mind Map Structure
Sections
WomenOld AgeYouthSC/ST & Persons with disability
Institution
FamilyMarriage CasteReligionMedia
Culture
HW : Prepare 6 to 7 Examples of Each
Homogenisation → Uniformity in culture
Mcdonaldization of food habits
an obsession of the English Language
Obsession with Game of Thrones
Obsession with Netflix
Hybridisation → Global + Local = Glocalisation
Gobhi Manchurian
No beef in McDonald's
Jeans with Kurta
the emergence of Hinglish
Foreign Movies in Regional Language
Revival of local culture
Celebration of International Yoga Day
Education in the Mother's tongue according to NEP
Religious Revivalism - Proliferation of Godmen
Course Content / Broad Outlook → Syllabus and Outline
Introduction to Indian Society
Mind Map
Concept
The network of social relationships is based on the pattern of interactions between the individual members is referred to as a society
Basic Features of Society
Defined Territory
Progeny/Reproduction
Common Culture
Independence / Independent Entity
Based on all these 4 basic attributes, we can say that
Indian Society is a collection of multiple societies as we possess composite culture
Impact of British Rule on Indian Society
Mind Map
Tradition - This is How Traditional Indian Society Looked
Ritual Status
Status that is acquired in society based on ascriptive criteria (i.e by birth)
Rooted from Religious Scriptures
Hierarchy
Based on Caste System
Division of B K V S
Concept of Pollution and Purity
Strong Religious Orientation
According to Mahatma Gandhi Implementing Secularism in India would be very difficult
Collectivism
Your Social Life is guided by the Collective Narrative of Society and Family (usually Joint)
Particularislism
Circumstances dictate how ideas and practices are applied; Some people are more equal than other
You Show me the Man, I Show you the Rule
Nepotism, Favouritism etc
Forces of Change
New Social Change
English language
Opened new Horizons of Education
Secular Education
After Britishers Education became Exoteric than Esoteric
New Ideas Liberated
printing technology
Dissemination of Idea Occurred
transport and communication →
the spread of ideas
New Social Order
Industrialization
Led to Emergence of Caste Neutral Job Opportunity
Urbanisation
Led to development of Urbanism → which led to →
anonymity
heterogeneity
new indicators of social status → the emergence of the elite class
Modern - This is How Indian Society Looked after the acting of Force of Change
Secular Status
Achieved Status
Status that is achieved by social factors like education, economic wealth or economic power, political power
Egalitarianism
Equal Society
Rationality
Logic and scientific temper
Individualism
the quality of being different from other people and doing things in your own way
Universalism
everyone is equal and treated the same
ideas and practices can be applied everywhere without any modification
Complete Modernity has not ushered in context of India, rather it has led to Mistaken Modernity
We have led to “Westernisation as Against Modernisation”
Westernisation versus Modernisation
Themes
Westernisation
Modernisation
Definition
Westernisation is a blind imitation of the culture of the west
Modernisation is the progressive transformation of social, political, economic, and attitudinal aspects of society
Scope
The scope of westernisation is speech, clothing, food habits, music preference
Modernisation is the fundamental concept to change bringing in values, behaviour, infrastructure, etc
For Example:
1. the modern education system
2. industrialisation
3. urbanisation
Nature
The nature of westernisation is an elite concept ie limited to middle and upper class
However, modernisation is a mass affair that penetrates every section of society
Desirability
Westernisation per se is not wrong but restricting only to westernisation in the name of modernisation is wrong
The process of modernisation can coexist with traditional values
However, modernisation goes against those traditional values which are regressive in nature
Example
Abolition of Sati & Triple Talak
Question : India Needs Modernisation and Not Westernisation. Comment ?
Salient Features/Unique Characters of Indian Society
1. Joint Family
Mind Map
Concept
Definition of Family
A family is defined as the social group that consists of people united by ties of blood, marriage and adoption
It is characterised by common residence, economic co-operation, reproduction and sexual gratification
Definition of Joint Family
A joint family extends for two or more generation
Nuclear Family at most Two Generations
Types of the family
on the Basis of Marriage
Monogamous
Straight - Marriage is Sacred & Divorce is Taboo
Serial - One Partner at a Time, but multiple single partners in life allowed
De Stigmatisation of Divorce and Separation
Polygamous - Polygyny and Polyandry (Toda and Khasa Tribe)
With globalisation, there is the emergence of a new value system that has reduced the religious significance of marriage
It has led to the de-stigmatisation of divorce and separation as a result we are moving from straight to serial monogamous families
on the Basis of Residence
Patrilocal - After marriage, the wife moves to the husband house
Matrilocal - After marriage, the wife stays in her house; Ex: Nayar
Neolocal - With the impact of globalisation, there is the emergence of diverse job opportunities because of which people are migrating to the new place with respect to the job
So, both husband and wife are moving to a new place and leading to the neolocal residence
on the Basis of Ancestry
Patrilineality
When one traces ancestry from the father side
Largely in the context of India
Matrilineality
When one traces ancestry from mother side Garo, Khasi, Nayar
on the Basis of Composition
On the basis of composition → Joint Family and Nuclear Family
Features of Typical Indian Joint Family
Patrilineal
Patrilocal
Patriarchal
centralised authority when the power is wielded by the oldest male member
Common Residence
Commensality
Interdining and Common Kitchen
Common Sharing of property
Blood Relations are more important than marital relations
Age and Sex are the main ordering principles of the family hierarchy
Oldest Male - Max Power
Youngest Female Member - Least Power
Functions and Dysfunctions of Joint Family
Mind Map / Summary
Functions - Positive role
Ques : Effects of Disintegration of Indian Nuclear Family
Ques : why the deviant acts amongst child is increasing
Ques : why is there stress or suicide among youth
Ques : why is there corruption of moral values
Ques : Indian Nuclear Family has become a Overloaded Circuit → Stress and Expectation from Spouse has Increased
Ques : Vulnerability of Old and Women has increased
Primary Socialisation
Induction of the child into the society is referred to as primary socialisation
First School of Child
Agency of Social Control
It prevents family members especially children from performing deviant acts and provides emotional support
Increased instances of suicide, deviant behaviour, Juvenile Delinquency, corruption of moral values due to lack of proper socialisation and social control
Agency of Social Insurance
From Each According to their Capability → to Each According to their Need
Provides Emotional Support
Economic Co-operation
prevents fragmentation of assets
secures economy of expenditure - Kharche Kam Ho Jaate Hain Over All
Provides identity and social status to Individual
Dysfunction - Negative Role
Normal Roles
Lack of Privacy Low standard of livingThe Low Status of WomenLack of IndividualismHigh Fertility Rate
Parivar Main Bacche Pal Jaate Hain
Scholarly Role
Self-Alienation - Detached from one's own self
It is Psychologically Damaging for an Individual ( Vanshika will Cure)
The individual in a joint family is supposed to act according to the expected norms rather than their true self which over a period of time results in detachment from one's self known as self-alienation which is psychologically damaging for an individual
Reproduction of Social Labour
In a joint family an individual is taught to never question the authority or always submit to the authority
Hence in a long run, we create a society consisting of those who are a social fit
Ghettoization (Us vs Them)
Parivarvaad → Us v/s Them to outside world
Arena of Contradiction and Conflict
Life Cycle of a Joint Family
Very Important Framework
Disintegration: Joint family to Nuclear Family → Ex: Migration
To Evade Land Reforms Theoretical Partition Happened sowed the Seeds of Disintegration Push
Agricultural distress
Population Pressure
Lack of alternative employment opportunities
Lack of Basic Infrastructure
Decline in village industries
Primordial identities basis of resource
Pull
Industrialisation
Urbanisation
High standard of living
Good quality of life
Access/availability of basic infrastructure
Modern Value System
Re-Integration: Nuclear Family to Joint Family
Reason 1
Chain migration and High cost of Living
Cannot afford to stay in separate households
Re-introduction of Joint family
Reason 2
Child Rearing is a Dual Career Family, Both Husband & Wife are Working
Reason 3
It was observed the functional jointness is still retained due to the performance of the physical and financial obligation
The family still retained joint family ethics for example participation in functions, ceremonies, rituals, festivals, etc
Joint Household is Disintegrated and Not Joint Family
Household → Common Residence & Common Kitchen
Hence we can say it is the joint household that is getting disintegrated and not joint family
Reason 4
Industrialisation - It is also basis for reintegration, Provides an economic basis to sustain a joint family
Generally a Joint Family is NOT found in Hill Area & Lower Caste People
Joint Family needs economic strength for the same, which industrialisation provides
Reason 5
Increased Feeling of Nativism - Gaaon ki Yaad Aa rahi hai - Voluntarily
Reason 6
Impact of Globalisation of Joint Family
Mind Map
Structure
The disintegration of Joint families
Disintegration of Household and not family
The emergence of the new family
nuclear family with extended ties
property division occurred, but marital with blood relations occurred, ceremonies attended
single parent
exercise of parenthood
no stigma to divorce, abortion, separation, legal notions
Pre marital not a taboo
surrogacy
Secularisation
female-headed
male specific distress migration
cohabitation/live indual career (both work - both h & W working)conjugal symmetrical (equal status to both men and women)
Interpersonal Relationships
Democratic Parenting seen over Authoritative Parenting
Democratic relationship and status of women has improved
Ties with extended family have improved due to social media
Functions
Economic Function of Family has Changed
The economic function has changed due to the emergence of industrialisation
It has led to a factory system of production and family is now reduced to the unit of consumption
Educational Role of Family
Also, with globalisation, there are diverse job opportunities that have led to the specialised institution of knowledge and have changed the education role of joint family
Role of Family for Spouse Selection
The role of the family with respect to spouse selection with respect to spouse selection
Conclusion
However, with respect to the primary socialisation agency of social control (it is still performed)
UPSC Question : Life Cycle of JF is based on Economic Factors rather than Social Values. Discuss ?
UPSC Question: Institution of JF is characterised by both Continuity and Change. Discuss the Impact of Globalisation in context of Joint Family
2. Caste System
Mind Map
Concept
Caste system refers to the system of social stratification which consists of hierarchically arranged, closed endogamous strata where membership is ascriptive, contact is restricted and mobility is theoretically impossible
Stratification refers to differential access to resources based on a hierarchical arrangement
The caste system in India is considered to be innate and endogamous as inter-caste marriage is not allowed; Ascriptive as it is determined by birth, etc
Caste is from Womb to Tomb
Models of Caste System
Mind Map
Varna
Book view (scriptures)
Divine origin theory - 4 Varna
Racial theory (Risley) - 2 varnas ie Arya and Dasa
Provides All India Macro framework
Hierarchy is rigid
Mere conceptual scheme
Objective - economic co-operation and social organisation
Based on the division of labour
Jati
Field view (Empirical Reality)
Based on the principle of purity and pollution
Due to Purity & Pollution, Occupational Division occurs
Polluted Person coming in contact with Pure person makes him lose his Purity
Pollution Occupational Division - Daai to Deliver, Burial Ground - are done by Lower Caste People
3 features - hierarchy, occupational division of labour; separation of contact
Flexible and localised
Within caste various sub-castes
Features of Caste System
Innate Nature
Hierarchy
Endogamy
Commensality
Occupational division of labour
Occupation is predetermined by birth and every caste is supposed to treat their occupation as a religious duty
Disability and privileges
Caste Councils
The objective of caste councils is to maintain the unity of caste and secure the uniformity of rules
Example : Khap Panchayat
Impact of Globalisation on Caste
Mind Map
Traditional
Hierarchy
Separation of contact
Occupational division of labour
Based on purity and pollution
Forces of Change
Industrialization
Urbanization
Modern Value System
Role of state - reservation, Land reforms, Universal adult franchise, Mandal Commission report
Contemporary Reality
Reservation
With Industrialization there were diverse job opportunities, based on skills, rather than caste; caste neutral job opportunities which challenge the occupation division of labour
Urbanisation has led to urbanism which led to anonymity heterogeneity and a secular pattern of living where the separation of contact of the traditional caste system is challenged
With the modern value system, there is rationality/scientific temper which is questioning hierarchy on the basis of purity and pollution
Due to reservation policy, the lower caste got access to higher education, govt jobs, political power etc and secular status/hierarchy is improving
However, the benefits of the reservation are not equally reaped by all and hence it led to the emergence of class within caste or elitism
Land Reforms
With the emergence of land reforms, there emerged a section who irrespective of their status in traditional caste hierarchy became socially dominant due to land ownership and political power
Mandal Commission & Conclusion
Mandal Commission Report has led to an alteration in the traditional structure of the caste system which led to the modern avatar of caste
Instead of vertical arrangement based on stigma, there was the emergence of horizontal competition for backward status without any stigma
Although caste has been dislodged from the religious domain due to industrialisation, urbanization, modern value system
However, it has entered the consciousness especially during electoral politics
❤️
Hierarchy - Ritual Hierarchy & Secular Hierarchy
Farmer own land but Peasants don't own land
Role of Caste in Politics
Pre Independence
Christian Missionaries spread the message of Christianity as a reformatory movement against the dogmas within Hinduism
The emergence of English education and secular language
The emergence of the Modern educated elite who wanted to reform Hinduism against regressive practices
Opportunities offered by britishers were availed by already influential group
Christian Missionaries spread the message of Christianity as a reformatory movement against the dogmas within Hinduism
The emergence of English education and secular language
The emergence of the Modern educated elite who wanted to reform Hinduism against regressive practices
All these three developments challenge the hegemony of upper caste
The upper caste wanted the status quo to be present and the lower caste wanted social change
The benefits offered by the Britishers were reaped by an already influential caste of the society which came to be known as the entrenched caste (Socially, politically, economically caste)
Post Independence
Three Phase Concept by Pol Scientist Rajni Kothari
Phase I
Struggle between entrenched and ascendant caste (rising caste) for power and benefits
In the post-independence period, there was another group of caste known as ascendent caste who are categorised as dis-satisfied caste who wants high and prestigious position through power
entrenched : jinki positions already influential
ascendant : jo ab slowly rise kar rahe hain
Phase II
Factionalism and fragmentation both between and entrenched caste and ascendant caste + multi caste alliances
Bringing lower caste to strengthen their faction
The politicisation of caste - tickets are distributed according to caste composition while forming government representation is provided to different caste
Concessions are made to different caste groups to seek support
Intermediate Stage before Stage 3
Casteisation of Politics Occurred
During the 1980s. there emerged a phase that was a caste-based political parties emergence ie BSP, SP, etc
Pre Phase of Caste Identification
In the current scenario, the caste identification has given new relevance to the electoral system where not only the large caste groups are affecting politics but also the smaller caste
For example, in the current scenario of UP, sticking to the alliance with non-Yadav OBC groups
The caste hasn’t ceased to exist rather it has worsened due to politics
Rajni Kothari : Politics is a Enterprise and Politicians are Entrepreneurs. Only thing they need is Religion & Caste. No talks of development is needed
Quote : if u elect the clown, you get to see the circus
Phase III
with urbanisation, industrialisation and modern education system, the role of state the caste identities will cease to exist
But the current situation is
According to NFHS-3 - Only 11% of marriages are inter-caste
Despite Art 17 of Constitution and prohibition of employment of Manual Scavengers along with Rehabilitation Act 2013; manual scavenging still persist
According to Bezwada Wilson there has been 472 deaths due to manual scavenging
Ministry of Social Justice and empowerment there are around 66,000 manual scavenging in India (UP> Assam)
AISHE; Average on national level is 27.1%; gross enrollment ratio (GER) (SC) - 23.4; GER (ST) - 18
Caste - Rural and Urban Areas
Rural - Caste
Core of village
Periphery - habituated by Dalits due to rigid caste system (separation of contact)
Lower caste migrated to urban areas to avail the of better opportunities and improve their standard of living as the urban area is characterise by urbanism
Urban area - Class
Informal sector - low wages;
Inability to afford a decent living
Confined to slums, etc
Emergence of different caste associations have emerged
Marriage association - Bharat and Rajput Matrimony
Economic Association - DICCI and NSCFDC
Political organisation - Bhim Sena, Maratha Kranti Morcha; Harijan Sevak Sangh
UPSC Question : Caste System has assumed new identities and associational forms. Hence cannot be eradicated in India. Comment (UPSC 2018)(15M)
Comment : Can Agree or Disagree.
Answer : Answer should it can be eradicated, but these following steps should be followed
UPSC Question : Has Caste Lost its relevance in understanding the multi cultural Indian Society ? Elaborate your answer with Illustrations (UPSC 2020)
Contemporary Issues
Reservation, Dominant Caste System, Dalit Capitalism, Violence Against Dalits
Reservation
Mind Map
Concept of Reservation
It is a form of affirmative action whereby the percentage of seats are reserved for people belonging to socially and educationally backward community and SC/ST
Rationale
The rationale behind reservation is to provide equality of opportunity; correct the historical injustice; give effect to the redistributive agenda of the state
Debate
For:
Promote Cohesion
It creates potential to reap benefits of demographic dividend
Upliftment of weaker section
To reduce the gap between haves and have nots
Ensure social inclusion and empowerment
Meritocracy without equality of opportunity is meaningless
In a democracy, the political necessity to give representation to all sections
To prevent social strife and promote cohesion
SC Neet Case : Merit is not one's own making, it is one's social background which helps the candidate achieve it
Against:
Compromises the notion of meritocracy
Widen the social cleavages
Relative deprivation among the forward caste
Increase violence against SC/ST due to the threat to the hegemony of upper caste
Class within caste
Reduce to political tool in hands of politicians to serve their vested interest
Strengthen caste consciousness, etc
Promote Agenda of Indian Welfare State
Way forward
Developing new yardsticks to determine backwardness
eg NALSA Judgement; OBC status to transgender
De-reservation based on social mapping
eg Creamy layer within SC/ST (According SC Judgement of Nagraj Case and Jarnail Singh)
overhauling of education System (Continuum of education from ECCE to Secondary Education)
Promote and make agriculture lucrative - will reduce pressure on government jobs; will reduce Hunger and malnutrition
MS Swaminathan - "Future belongs to the nation with gains and not with guns" - Substantiate with SDG
Perception management
Reservation is only a means and not an end
Promote a culture of self-employment & entrepreneurship
Practise Question : Caste in India has maintained its political significance despite dilution of its social characterPractise Question : to what extent reservation policy in India has led to empowerment and Inclusion of marginalised section.
Dominant Caste
Mind Map
Background
Agricultural community
The position got consolidated due to land reforms and the Green revolution
Have been socially, economically and politically dominant
Contemporary Reality
Agriculture is in distress
Lack of employment opportunities
Obsession with city life due to globalisation
Skewed sex ratio (Jats)
Dominant Caste has the feeling of relative deprivation
Dominant Caste believes that they cannot compete with the upper caste in private jobs due to lack of education
Dominant caste believes they cannot compete with the lower caste in government jobs due to lack of reservation
Challenges faced by Dominant Caste
Challenges
Globalization →
Capitalism →
Profit maximization →
minimising cost of production →
Keeping other aspects constant attempt to reduce wages →
Outsourcing of Jobs / Contracting →
Informalisation of Job Market
According to Indian staffing, 44% of government employees are in contractual jobs
Since the ideology is based on minimum government and maximum governance →
Shrinking of jobs especially Group C and D jobs
Solution to Challenges
Self-employment and making agriculture lucrative
Perception management of the youth, etc
Question : To what extent inclusion of dominant caste in the OBC list is the solution to the challenges they are facing in the Job Market ?
Dalit Capitalism
Mind Map
Details
Dalit refers to a section that is socially marginalised and also economically deprived
The term Dalit was first used by Jyotirao Phule
The term Dalit Capitalism was first coined by Chandra Bhan Prasad
Dalit Capitalism is when capitalism is seeked as a solution to the upliftment and emancipation of Dalits - Entrepreneurship among Dalits
It also creates opportunities for economic empowerment
It cultivates the culture of self-employment
Enable to transfer youth from job seeker to job giver
Government measures - DICCI, NSCFDC, Stand-up India (Promote Self Employment Amongst SC, ST & Women)
Dalit Capitalism is just one of the necessarily mean to ensure employment but however not sufficient
Capitalism inherently is an exploitative concept
Hence, Dalit Capitalism will only benefit a few elites within Dalit which will further aggravate "Intra Caste Inequalities"
It is providing Income Opportunities to Dalits But it is not focussing on social mindset. dalit entrepreneurship will suffer prejudice at different levels (admn, pol, credit, social)
Due to the rigid caste system, there is a limited presence of skill development among Dalit youths
Dalit Capitalism does not focus on the poorest of poor Dalits for whom the struggle is of land alienation; violence; self-respect, the dignity of life
According to India Human Development Survey, upward income mobility among Dalits is higher than in other social groups, etc
Question : Despite Various Legal Provisions, Violence Against Dalit is on the rise. Discuss (10M)
NCRB : National Crime Records Bureau
VAD : Violence Against Dalits
Cultural Lag : Lack of Internalisation of Law by Society
Quote : It is not the Severity of the Law but the Certainty of the Law which acts as a Deterrent Factor
SC Quotes : Domestic Violence Act, Sec 498A of IPC & Prevention of Atrocities have been misused the most. It leads to Legal Terrorism. The process should be made more robust.
One More Reason : it is the retaliation by upper caste against the practise of sanskritization by the lower caste. For Example in the context of Rajasthan a dalit groom was beaten because he was doing the ghudsawari custom
Data 1 : According to Indian Human Development Survey Upward Income Mobility Amongst Dalit is higher than other social groups.
Dalit MovementPractise Question : What do you mean by Dalit Capitalism ? To what extent it is the solution to all the Dalit Problems in India ?
3. Unity in Diversity
Diversity & Allied Threat
Language - Linguistic Nationalism
Religion - Communalism
Region - Regionalism
Race - Racial Intolerance
Ethnicity - Ethno-nationalism
4. Secularism5. Multiculturalism
Definition
It refers to cultural diversity
Coexistence of different religious ethnic cultural groups within the society
People have a tendency to retain, celebrate and pass on their unique culture
There are two schools of thought within multi-culturalism
Salad Bowl Theory of
describes a heterogeneous society where different cultures are brought together as the ingredients of the salad. But the individual flavour is retained instead of merging into a single homogeneous culture
Melting Pot
People of different cultures melt together deserting their individual cultures and getting fully assimilated into the predominant society
Our constitution promotes and follows the Salad Bowl concept of multiculturalism
Social Empowerment
It refers to autonomy in decision-making and confidence to bring about changes in the structures of society which has kept them marginalised over the years
In the absence of social empowerment, no amount of economic or political empowerment will yield the desired results
Examples:
Political Empowerment → Sarpanch Pati - Mukhiya Pati
Economic Empowerment → NFHS 89% women can’t spend the money they are earning
Political Empowerment → SC / ST Sarpanch Can't Sit on Chair in the Panchayat due to Caste Rigidity
Women
Gender
Sex is Biological and Gender is Social Concept
Its manifestations - Individual, Cultural, Structural
Impact on Gender stereotyping on the social status of women
Gender
Gender is defined as socially constructed aspects of differences between men and women
It has three manifestations to itself
Individual-level - male and female - separate social identity
Cultural level - Difference with respect to value, goals between aspirations
Structural level - the sexual division of labour
Gender Stereotyping → impact on the social status of women
Women by very nature are caring and nurturing → Domestic division of labour (91.8% women unpaid work; 20% male - unpaid domestic work)
Possess "soft skills" → Pink collared jobs ie primary school teacher; nurse; receptionist; Secretary
Women are emotional and hence incapable of rational "decisions" → Glass Ceiling (Women not promoted beyond a certain level)
Weak, passive and dependent → Violence against women
Gender Stereotyping Example - Fairy Tales
Esther Duflo conducted a study in the case of Indian villages - wherever there has been Women Sarpanch has ushered good governance
The concept of gender draws its legitimacy from a patriarchal society, etc
Patriarchy
Concept
Patriarchy is defined as System of social structures and practices in which men oppress, exploit and dominate women
Structure (through which lesson of patriarchy is learnt)
Family
The first notions of Patriarchy are learnt in the family; for example, Boychild is considered as inheritor of the family whereas girl child is considered as Paraya Dhan
Most of the families are patrilineal and patrilocal, so low status is accorded to a girl child in the society
Lessons of Gender stereotyping is also taught at the family level; for example, blue for boys and pink for girls
Family acts as an agent of reproducing the patriarchal culture rather than social change
Knowledge System
Patriarchal construction of knowledge perpetuates patriarchal ideology and it is reflected in our media and educational system
Media -
objectification (sexual desire) commodification of women (traded in market)
Education system -
content
primary school books ;content is gender coloured
infrastructure
According to Annual Status of Educational Report, 2018 maximum dropouts of girls due to lack of separate toilets
attitude of teachers
patriarchal attitude of teachers → Women Subjugating Other women
Symbolism
A subtle expression of patriarchy by creating self-sacrificing
For example : Cinema, Television, Scriptures
Apurva Purohit book "Lady you are not a man" - Talks about Sita Syndrome
Ideological Indoctrination - Pativrata and Stri Dharma
Objectification of Women through Lyrics & Glorification of Women Violence - Example Kabir Singh & Item Songs
Religion
Patriarchal construction of social practices are legitimised by religion and religious institutions as most practices regard male authority as superior
Devi Dichotomy - Women is worshipped as Devi on one hand and Dasi on another hand her status is society is that of dasi
Goddess of Knowledge Saraswati but Women is Denied Education
Durga is Goddess of Power but she is weak
Festivals - Raksha Bandhan; brother considered to be the protector
Simone De Beauvoir - Religion is an instrument of deception
Caste
Caste and gender are closely related and the sexuality of women is directly linked to the purity of caste
The caste system and caste endogamy tries to control the labour and sexuality of women
Hence caste system is not just the social division of labour but also the sexual division of labour
Brahmanical Patriarchy
The manner in which Patriarchy exist and is organised in society is based on the caste system
For example, the idea of purity and pollution has been extended to women
Higher you go up the hierarchy, rules of strigentness of purity and pollution is increased. Here Patriarchy becomes more stringent.
Premarital sex is based on the concept of purity and pollution
Conclusion
Although, patriarchy exists on a pan Indian basis, the manner in which it is practised varies with respect to class, caste, region, religion, ethnicity, etc
Hence we can say, the patriarchy among Dalit; from among Brahmins from upper class as that from the lower class, etc
What is Women Empowerment ?
According to the UN, women empowerment has five attributes i.e
a sense of self-worth
access to resources - Social Pol Eco Resources
autonomy with respect to decision making - Especially Reproductive Life
control over lives
ability to influence the direction of social change
Challenges faced by women in the Agricultural sector - lack of entitlement, lack of ownership rights, lack of access to institutional credit, etc
Patriarchy vis-a-vis Work
Introduction
Patriarchy vis-a-vis Workplace
Domestic space and private patriarchy
Private Patriarchy - the domestic division of labour, unpaid care work, domestic violence, gender stereotyping
With globalisation - diverse job opportunities and high cost of living, etc
It was expected with globalisation and modern value systems notions of patriarchy will be challenged
However, instead of being challenged its manifestation changed
Public space or labour market and public patriarchy
Public Patriarchy - Pink collared jobs, glass ceiling, wage gap, sexual harassment at workplace, ridiculed in society, the problem of the dual burden or double shift
Practise Question : What do you mean by Feminisation of Agriculture ? Briefly Discuss the Economic and Socio Cultural Factors responsible for Feminisation of Agri in India ?Practise Question : To What extent Feminisation of Agriculture creates the potential for Women Empowerment ?
It creates the potential for women empowerment as it brings women to the public sphere
It creates the potential for their economic independence or financial autonomy
It makes their labour visible and accountable
In long run, it will create potential to instil confidence among women and increase their bargaining power
Women in Industries
According to the Consulate General of Sweden in India, Women's participation in the Industrial sector is 3-12%
Women's participation is less as there is a lack of awareness with respect to opportunities
Lack of role models and limited skills due to patriarchy
Lack of incentive to work ie wage gap, dual burden, etc
Lack of flexible working conditions, career break, etc
Lack of desirability of women in the labour market due to 26 weeks of maternity leave, e tc
Women in Service Sector
According to ILO, women's participation in the Service sector along with the industrial sector is less than 20%
Also, there is a concentration of women in certain jobs ie Pink Collared Jobs, etc
Although enrollment of women in higher education has increased, despite that the gender gap in the workplace is high
Reasons - lack of investment in technical and vocational education due to the problem of dowry
The career preference is made according to the ability to manage the dual burden
According to Mckinsey Global Institute, approximately 12 million Indian Women will lose jobs by 2030 due to the automation of clerical jobs in India (women are most represented in clerical jobs)
Women in Informal Sector
Women in Informal Sector
According to ILO, in India, if we take the percentage of women in the informal sector plus part-time jobs then it surpasses men
Patriarchy has led to the deprivation of women
So, limited access to educational opportunities, skill development, formal job opportunities
Confined to work in the informal sector
So, a lack of minimum wages, social security, career growth, etc
Practise Question : Discuss the Impact of Patriarchy on Middle Class Working Women ? (UPSC 2014)
Conclusion : Patriarchy is the Biggest Threat to Development of our Nation, Bird Cannot Fly on one Wing. Similarly we cannot develop if one half of us are held back
The Notions of Patriarchy needs to be challenged on an Immediate Basis
Issues - Low Female Labour Force Participation (LFFP); unpaid work; wage gap, sexual harassment
Practise Question : In the context of Global Gender Gap Report, Examine the Factors responsible for decline in Labour Force Participation of Women in India ?
Female Labour Force Participation (FLFP):
Causes of Less FLFP
Over Representation in Unpaid Work
Lack of Conducive Infrastructure Ex : Child Care Facility Ex : SEWA NGO
Explanation of Increase Enrollment in Secondary Sector - Feminisation U Hypothesis
Observation by Eco Survey of 2017
Basic Facts
According to WEF's Global Gender Gap report, FLFP has declined to 22.3%
According to this report, the economic gap is more than the political gap
The economic participation gap has widened by 3%, etc
Highlights of the report - Impact of COVID on Gender Gap; Widening of Gender Gaps, etc
Recommendations made by the report for gender parity, increase FLFP, etc
The various causes for the low FLFP, etc
Implication of decline/Low FLFP - Diagram
SEWA → 6000 Women Dairy Cooperative was seen → Improved the Nutritional Supply of Children
SEWA - Self Employed Working Women Association
Implication of decline/Low FLFP - Cause
Individual-level wrt women lack financial autonomy; lack of opportunities for social mobility; lack of ability to bring social change; self-alienation; wrt child nature of socialisation given to the child
Family - decline in the standard of living and perpetuation of patriarchy
Nation - low economic growth; inability to reap benefits of demographic dividend
Status of Nation at Global level - Threatens the potential to India to emerge as a global power
Earning Differentials
According to the online salary Index "Monster", the age gap is around 20%
The reasons for the wage gap:
Under-valuation of acre work done by women
According to OECD, the pay gap also exists due to a lack of bargaining power among women
Career break due to parenthood duties
Preference of male employees over female employees due to various factors, etc
Unpaid Work
What is Unpaid Work
Skewed distribution of unpaid work
Service Factor
Education and Unpaid Work
Causes for increased representation of women in unpaid work
Impact on women
Way Forward
Recognizing and accounting unpaid work as an economic activity
Need for recognising unpaid work
Challenges in recognising and monetising unpaid work
What Needs to be Done
Practise Question : What do you mean by Unpaid Work, to what extent do you think recognising and accounting unpaid work as economic activity is feasible ? Discuss.
Violence against women (VAW)
Manifestation - Domestic violence; Dowry; Sexual Harassment
Introduction
Statistics
Provisions Available
UDHR : Universal Declaration on Human Rights
CEDAW : Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women
1975 - First Conference (Mexico)
Towards Equality Report
1975 - 85 → Womens Decade on Women
Concept by Raunak Jahan
Prior 1975 → Women in Development → Passive Beneficiary
Post 1975 → Women and Development → Active Participants
1995 - Beijing Conference
12 Areas of Concern
Women and poverty, Women and education, Women and environment were highlighted.
This conference celebrated its 25th Year in 2020
To achieve the goal of gender equality by 2030
Other programs: E.g. Bol, Nari Adalat (Gujarat), etc. to address crisis faced by women
Other schemes: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Prevention of Trafficking, etc
Mahila Police, SHE Box, etc. have been taken.
Government Efforts
Causes for Violence Against Women
Gender Social Norms Index : 90% of Women and Men across 80 Countries have biased view of Women
Implications/Issues of Violence Against Women
Way Forward
Way Forward can be Infrastructural / Developmental as well
OSC - One Stop Centre
MPV - Mahila Police Vehicle
Moral overhauling of society.
Value-based education.
De-stigmatization of violence against women.
Creating awareness among women through continuous efforts, e.g. social media, street plays.
He/She campaign, need of convergence approach.
UPSC Question 2021
Introduction: This can be started with a paradox.
The status of women in post-independent India has changed significantly.
Structural and cultural changes brought about in many opportunities for women.
As seen from the progress of contemporary women making their mark in various fields, e.g. Kalpana Chawla, Indira Nooyu, Kiran Mazumdar, Indira Gandhi, etc.
However, it is ironical to note that societal attitude continues to be patriarchal.
UPSC Question : Despite Legal Provisions, VAW is on the rise in India. Discuss ? (UPSC 10M)
💵
Data is the NEW OIL
Types of Crime :
Petty - < 3 Years
Serious - 3 to 7 Years
Heinous - > 7 Years
Broken Window Theory : If for a small crime, if a person is not held accountable, the probability of committing a heinous crime increases
Gender Violence & Covid 19
Minister of Congress, Mohammad Arif Khan resigned on over turning of SC Judgement by Rajeev Gandhi on Alimony Case
Domestic Violence
Question : Discuss the factors responsible for Domestic Violence Incidents in Society ?
Change in Socio Economic in Urban Areas threatened male hegemony Plus Traditional Division of Labor
Sita Syndrome - Self Sacrificing Image of Woman
Prestige → Status of Family be Negatively Impacted
Ideological Indoctrination
Dowry
Introduction
Dowry Prohibition Act
Reasons for Incidences of Dowry
Reasons for incidences of Dowry
Acceptance of culture
Dowry treated as an investment.
It is also identified as an investment.
Sanskritization etc. are also the factor for dowry.
Practice of caste endogamy, scarcity of grooms, etc.
Groom Price is determined by caste, jobs, future prospects, etc.
Google : Nisha Sharma Case of 2003Way Forward
Promote the concept of ‘Adarsh Marriage’
Affluent people to restrain from the lavish weddings
Stigmatization of practice of dowry
Efforts to increase Female Labour Force Participation
Use innovation: key leaders, education, persuade them to lend their voice, etc
Sexual Harassment for Women at Workplace
Priya Ramani Case of #MeToo
No Time Limit
Correct Cases don't account for Defamation
Harassment of women at workplace
Recently Supreme Court has held that the objective of the act is: protection, prevention, redressal of complaints
Provisions: Defines what constitutes sexual harassment, quid pro quo, hostile work environment
Section 354 (a) of IPC defines sexual harassment: physical contact, request for sexual favour, etc
Sexual Harassment
Victimization of women at workplace has led to a decline in female labour force participation
According to the report of FICCI, 36% of Indian companies and 25% of MNCs have yet not established ICC
Around 74% of women do not report the cases, due to lack of understanding of sexual harassment, fear of retaliation, lack of faith in complaint mechanism, fear of social exclusion, etc
Misuse of Women Friendly Laws
It has been called as ‘new legal terrorism’ by Supreme Court.
Misuse of laws by women.
Domestic Violence Act 498A IPC, cruelty by husband and relatives.
Instead of being used as a shield, it is used as a weapon to settle their personal scores.
Case : KPS Gill (IPS) v/s Rupam Deval Bajaj Case (IAS) → Supreme CourtQuestion: On one hand, an increase in violence against women justifies strong laws, whereas, on the other hand, these laws are misused. Explain the paradox in Indian society. (10 marks/ 150 words)
Example : Jasleen Kaur Case
Revenge Vendatta
Ambiguity Loopholes
Lack of Gender Neutral Laws
Gender Stereotype of Women as a Victim
Monetary Incentives (means to make easy money)
Corruption of Value System
New Legal Terrorism by Supreme Court
Misuse of Laws by Women especially in DV Act and 498 A IPC → Cruelty by Husband & Relatives
Instead of Being used as a Shield it is being used as a Weapon to settle their Personal Scores
Surrogacy from CA ClassMarriageable Age from CA ClassUPSC Question : What are the continued challenges for Women in India against Time & Space (10M)Essay Topic : Fulfillment of New Women in India is a Myth (1200 - 1500 Words)UPSC Essay Topic : Patriarchy is Least Noticed yet the most Significant Structure of Social Inequality (1200 - 1500 Words)
Diversity
Mind Map of Diversity
Concept of Diversity
Collective differences which set off one group different from other
Manifestations & Allied Issues wrt Diversity
Linguistic - Linguistic Division
Has it been a threat to National Integration
Official Language Issue
Linguistic Reorganisation of states
Status of Diversity
India is extremely linguistically diverse with 22 languages mentioned under the 8th Schedule
Approximately 124 major languages are spoken in India with 1652 dialects
The extent can be explained by saying “Kos Kos pe Badle Paani, Char Kos Pe Baani”
Why is Language So Important
Language is one of the most important marker of Group Identification. It is an integral component of cultural identity.
As a result, language is one of the important markers of group identification
As a result, linguistic diversity has acted as a source of both cohesion and conflict
Often, the discords have emerged due to feeling of "relative deprivation" and "fear of domination" by the speakers of the majority language
How does Feeling of Relative Deprivation → Retaliation
1. Issue of Language Issue
Premise
To implement the essence of the "Salad Bowl" theory of multiculturalism, Indian leadership decided not to have any single language as a national language
However, for smooth facilitation of official work, there was a need for "official language"
There were 2 contenders i.e “Hindustani or Hindi” in “Devnagri Script or Urdu Script” and English
English was a superior contender
as it was the language of international diplomacy;
the language of trade and commerce;
western ideas/values, more enriched language due to availability of work in science, legal and political discourse
According to Mahatma Gandhi, irrespective of being a strong contender English will never be accepted as the official language by the masses due to unequal relations with the English men
Urdu was seen as a symbol of secession and partition
The adoption of official language was a debatable term not only during the framing of the Indian constitution but even after that
Despite English being a strong contender, it was not accepted as the official language
Constitution, under Article 343, declared Hindi in the Devnagari Script as the official language and English as the associate language till 1965
However, it was the over-enthusiastic attitude of the Hindi proponents that backfired and resulted in Supra State Regionalism
The Hindi Speaking States versus the Non-Hindi Speaking States
1963 - Official Language Act was introduced to ensure the use of the English language as associate language beyond 1965
Text : English MAY continue to act as associate language post 1965.
After Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri said on 26 Jan 1965, Hindi would be the Sole Official Language, alternative Medium of Examination in Government Services
Hence 26 Jan 1965 was called as Day of Mourning
Slogan by : Hindi Never, English Ever
People demanding Hindi as Official Language now demanded English as Official Language because like the Non Hindi Speaker was unknown to Hindi, Hindi Speaker was unknown to English.
Hence, Both Hindi and Non Hindi Speakers were put on same pedestal
Concept of : Subject Realisation of Objective Reality
However, the text of the act was ambiguous and hence it generated apprehensions
Finally, in 1967 Official Language Amendment Act ensured an indefinite policy of bilingualism
Practise Question : Discuss the Challenges Confronted by Indian Leadership wrt to Language Issues in the Initial Decade Post Independence2. Linguistic Reorganisation of States
Premise
Leadership was in favour of Linguistic Reorganisation of States
For the development of regional languages
For the massive spread of literacy and universal education
For the realisation of democracy in a true sense politics and administration should be carried out in a language that is understood by all
At the time of independence:
However at the time of Independence other Issues which were confronting leadership - integration of Princely States; Kashmir Issue; Indo-Pak war
Any attempt to redraw the boundaries of state on linguistic lines would lead to Political, administrative, economic dislocation or disruption
Committees Established
Various committees were established such as
SK Dhar Committee → desirable but time is not right
JVP Committee → desirable but time is not right, but if any popular demand then we will consider
However, due to growing protest, finally, Government conceded to the demands of Linguistic Reorganisation and Fazal Ali Commission was established
It provided for 14 states and 6 Centrally administered territories
However, Bombay and Punjab were reorganised later in 1960 and 1966 respectively
According to Rajni Kothari (Pol Sci), linguistic reorganisation has been functional as it removed the major source of discord and created homogenous political units which could be administered through the medium that the vast majority of the population understood
However, linguistic reorganisation did not resolve all the problems related to linguistic diversity as even after the creation of linguistic states there were various minority languages spoken in that particular state, which demanded their own minority language states
As a result, it was like opening the pandora box and demands for the linguistic state are still prevalent
For Example the Demand of Gorkhaland and Mithila State from Bihar etc
Linguistic chauvinism also finds occasional expression
For example, the provision of making Hindi compulsory as mentioned in the Draft National Education Policy
Practise Question : To what extent LRS has contributed to Indian Unity ? Discuss
Religious - Communalism
The Extent of Diversity - Inter and Intra
Inter - Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, Christianity
Intra - Sects, Cults
Issues with respect to Religious Diversity
Communalism - Concept, Types, Manifestation and Evolution
Concept
Communalism refers to the ideology according to which society is divided into different religious communities having different secular (social, political and economic) interest
A man of religion is not communal. However, if one practises one's politics by linking it with religion is called communalism ie political trade in religion (Mazhab ki Siyasi Dukandari)
Communalism in a broad sense means strong attachment to one's own community
Positive aspects of communalism ensure that individuals have a strong affinity towards their own community and hence individual work for the socio-economic upliftment of that community
However, in the negative sense, it is an ideology that emphasises, having a separate identity of their religious group in relation to others and there is a tendency to promote one's own interest at the expense of others
Manifestations
Mild - When people belonging to the same community have sam secular interest
Moderate - When people belonging to different communities have different secular interests
Extreme - Not only different interests but mutually hostile/antagonistic
Zero Sum Game
Over All Power in Society is Constant which Implies that if anyone in society is gaining power means the other is losing it.
However this might not be always true
Types of Communalism
Good Communalism
Assimilationist
When a larger religious community tries to assimilate the smaller communities within its fold such that the latter's culture gets subdued.
It is referred to as assimilationist communalism.
For Example : Hindu Code Bill is applicable to Hindus, Buddhists, Jain and Sikhs
Also, the assimilationist concept was given by GS Ghurye for tribals and refereed to them as Backward Hindus
Welfarist
When the people belonging to a particular religious community works for the welfare of their members of their community is referred to as Welfarist communalism
For Example scholarships, hostel facilities, job opportunities, etc
Retreatist
The members of the Bahai Community are forbidden to participate in the Party politics since it is based on the ideology of unity of God, religion and mankind
Hence, any prejudice on the basis of political aspect is believed to destroy this unity
Bad Communalism
Retaliatory
It is a violent manifestation as the religious communities believe that they have a mutually hostile interest
Separatist
When a separate state is demanded based on religious lines however within the Indian union is referred to as separatist communalism;
for example the creation of a separate Punjab state
Secessionist
When there is demand for a separate nation on religious lines which threatens the territorial integration; it is referred to as secessionist communalism
for example the demand for Khalistan
Evolution of Communalism
Communalism is rooted in India’s cultural (Religious) diversity
The practice of Religious tolerance was observed during Ancient and Medieval times(Although few incidences of communalism)
Peaceful coexistence among people of different religious faiths
To trace the origin of communalism from the British period
Factors Responsible for the emergence of communalism in India
Aspiration of the middle class of youth was not getting served due to;
Agriculture stagnation
Absence of modern industries
Lack of adequate job opportunities.
These all create discrepancies in demand & supply.
Due to this Nepotism, favoritism, groups rise.
The socio-Economic reality in India I such religious distinctions consider with class distinction
For Eg: Hindu Zamindar v/s Muslim Peasants
Example in Jammu : shaikh abdullah implementing socialist land reforms. It looked like muslim leader favoring muslim peasants
Communalism also evolved due to power struggles among elites of different religious communities.
For Eg:
Western Punjab( Muslim vs. Hindu moneylenders)
Eastern Bengal (Hindu vs. Muslim Jotedars)
Finally, It was divided and ruled the policies of Britishers.
Communalism was used as a prop/tool to further their colonial interest;
For Eg: tolerance towards the communal press; a Separate electorate; the policy of favoring one community others with respect to job promotion etc.
Most Communal History is seen around Policy of Favoring on Community against others wrt Job Promotion etc. Laxity on the part of Police & Law
According to Bipin Chandra, communal politics for very long periods of time was organized around govt Job, educational concession, policies etc
Communalism basically developed to serve the economic and political interests
In fact vested interest of few encouraged communalism due to its capability to divert and distort popular struggle and prevent masses from understanding the real issues
Other Factors
Problem with leadership of Nation
the overthrow of the colonial state was only a necessary condition to fight communalism but not sufficient.
Failure of national leadership to unify diff. section of society as it resorted to a policy of negotiation with the leaders of diff. organization rather than making a direct appeal to the masses
As a result, there was an implicit acceptance that they only share political and economic interests however socially culturally they are distinct
In fact, the Hindu touch was given to nationalist freedom struggle it further initiated apprehension on the religious minority
Eg: Ganesh Festivals, Shivaji Festivals, Dip in Ganga etc. to mark protest against Bengal partition
Distorted and Communal View of History was presented by different historian foreigners (James Mill)
The distorted and communal view of history where the Ancient period was defined as the Hindu period and the Medieval period was defined as the Muslim period
In fact, it was written Indian culture reached its peak during the ancient period however fell into permanent decay at the Medieval Period because of Muslim leaders
Over glorification of Ancient Indian History and undermining Medieval Indian History had led to disenchantment among the educated Indian Muslim Community
Even post-independence Govt failed to tackle the menace of communalism which is the biggest threat to the secular fabric of India
Lack of cultural integration →
Development of stereotypes →
Prejudiced Attitude(rigid, -ve) →
Violent Manifestation →
Minority resorting to survival technique of invisibility →
Ghettoization
Lack of opportunity for socio-economic development among minorities:
Socio-Economic disparities among different religious groups
Eg: SACHAR committee Report
Such a report along with the NSSO labor force survey have highlighted how Muslims constitute the most deprived section whether it is employment, education, administration, political representation etc
There exist a Vicious cycle of power poverty among them
Access to credit is very low the, representation among elite positions is quite less hardly 3-4% respectively
The policy of appeasement followed by the political leadership has also fanned communal sentiments for to Indian society
For Eg: How Rajiv Gandhi Govt. turn on Shah Bano's Case
Divisive Politics Religion is used as a tool to divide people & further their vote Bank
It is the political manipulation that has to led the persistence of communalism in India
The Negative role of Social Media / Media
Communal nature of Media they are communalizing the content. Sometimes rumors present in news without any authentication.
For Eg:
1969 Ahmedabad Riots
2013 Muzaffarnagar Riots
The feeling of relative deprivation has also fueled communal sentiments
Laxity on the part of the administration to cripple the capacity of communal outfits to disrupt law and order
According to Ranganath Mishra Committee report ; often it is police officials who are responsible for biased attitudes against religious minorities
Vicarious Reinforcement of communal people also generates fear among the different religious groups → Leads to Fear Psychosis
Practise Question : What is the difference between Religiousness and Communism
Religious Fundamentalism - Concept and Causes
Concept
Violent offshoot of communalism by which few self-style through the believer tries to arrest the erosion of religious identities.
Rationale
Behind fundamental religion to the belief that due to modernization and secularization the world has changed so much that it is acting as a threat to their ability to protect and preserve their religious identity and practices.
Primary Causes
Modernisation, Secularisation
Social Significance has been declined
Others Cause
Ideological Cohesion (Presence of common sacred religious texts)
Supply of potential Recruits(Availability of relatively deprived people)
Charismatic Leadership
Communication Technology
Secular Education
As results question the regressive practices --> threatens the harmony of orthodox
Questions & Answers
Question : What do you mean by religious Fundamentalism? Discuss the factors responsible for its emergence?Question & Answer : With respect to incidences of growing communal violence in India suggested a few measures to tackle the menace:
Short Term Solutions
Setting up of peace communities
Responsible and Restraint Journalism
Active Participation of NGOs & Civil Society to drive away Religious Differences
Use of cultural platform to facilitate peace and harmony between the different religious communities
Extremist communal outfits should be immediately targeted and their capacity to cripple law & order should be disrupted
Codification for administrative officials and proper training for police to handle communal rights
Sensitization of different stakeholders with respect to religious minorities
Electoral reforms, reform in the criminal justice system are the need of the hours
Adequate representation of minorities in different law enforcement agencies
Long Term Solutions
To eradicate poverty, unemployment, illiteracy
Secular education + value-based education up to any ideological colorization
Communal Press needs to be discouraged & Strict action against them
Communalisation of the political elites needs to be checked
Socialization of children & younger generation w.r.t values of tolerance, peace, harmony, scientific temper needs to be ensured by different agencies of socialization
Strict against those who are not performing their duty in an unbiased manner
Awareness w.r.t scheme and initiatives
Strengthening media ethics, responsible journalism is the need of the hours
Creating a virtuous society or ethical society
Example : Gandhi’s Ram Rajya
NOTE : You can't always hold the state responsible for social change and no matter how weak it is, no group always remains a victim
Question : Communalism arises due to power Struggle or Relative Deprivation ? (UPSC 2018)
Regional - Regionalism
Mind Map
Concept of Region
Region is a Homogenous area
But they are Physically & Culturally distinct from neighboring areas
People of Particular regions have the awareness that they are similar but distinct from People of other regions.
Regional Identity
Professing your political loyalties more towards the region rather than the nation/state.
In the context of India regionalism is rooted in India’s diversity with respect to language caste religion ethnicity etc.
When all these factors get geographically concentrated along with the feeling of Regionalism
Politics of Regionalism
Positive
if you feel your unique cultural identity is getting discriminated or dominated and hence to concretize your cultural identity if you resort to Regionalism
For Example : LRS (Linguistic Reorganisation of States)
In order to avail betterment opportunities for purpose of socio-economic development
For Example Telangana
If for the purpose of administrative convenience or for the purpose of good governance in this case it does not threaten national integration.
For Example:
Creation of Uttarakhand
Incorporation of 5th Schedule & 6th Schedule
However
any demand for regionalism that is based on violence
that demand is communal in nature
you’re demanding secession
son of soil policy
means you’re threatening the territorial integrity of India
In a positive sense
regionalism encourages people to develop a sense of brotherhood and one which seeks to protect the interests of the people of that region and prompt its welfare and development
However
in the negative sense, it denotes excessive attachment to one own region to the extent of being detrimental to the interest of people belonging to another region
For Example : Son of Soil Theory
Example
Son of Assam - Bengali Overreach - Assamese as Official Language
Assam Student Union
Negative & Son of Soil Theory
Son of Soil doctrine is an example of the Politics of Nativism
Son of Soil Policy is When the inhabitants of the region claim the rights over resources of the land along with the exclusion of the outsider is referred to as the Son of the Soils
The factors which influence the son of the soil
Areas where there is a lack of a culture of out-migration
Struggle for middle-class jobs
Presence of strong Regional Parties
Lack of ability of state administration to accommodate the interest of both natives & migrants
Rising Aspiration of Masses
Example of the Son of Soil:
Ghasi Area of Meghalaya
Ramdasi people were starting to get representation in middle class jobs and prosperity which led to feeling of relative deprivation between Ghasi and Ramdasi People
Landmarks that led to the emergence of Regionalism
The democratic form of government aim at nation-building on the principles of democracy, equality, justice, etc
Everyone wanted a fair deal, and anything short of expectations was met with disenchantment
Integration of Princely states
Linguistic Reorganisation of states
The selfish interest of politicians
The politician exploited the narrow and regional sentiments of the ignorant masses for fulfilling their vegetative interests.
Regionalism on the basis of the linguistic identity was nothing but an opening up of pandora box of demands (King)
Basis of Regionalism
Historical Basis
it supported regionalism on the basis of cultural heritage, folklore, and myth.
For Eg: Demand for Dravidistan
in Dravidian, it was supported by the theory that at one point in time the Dravidian-speaking area had non-brahmanical polity and society that is it was unstratified
however it was disrupted with the Aryan conquest and their hegemony
Geographical Basis
it depends on the presence of natural resources
International borders
connectivity with mainland India
landforms, climate, rainfall
For Example:
Buffer Region of Bundelkhand
North East Demands Separate State because they are unhappy due to level of development in India
They have more illegal migration due to them being in the International Borders
Socio-cultural Basis
Language
Language has been the most important mark of group identification. Hence has given rise to linguistic regionalism
For Eg: Bifurcation of greater Assam
For Eg: Linguistic Reorganization of State
Caste
Demand of Tamil Nadu was on the basis of caste it was an anti-brahmanical in its orientation as they wanted to end the dominance the Brahmans
However, it provided a strong impetus to linguistic regionalism as caste-based demand will not be accepted because it threatens the secular fabric of India.
Religion
Similarly, the religious demand in the context of Punjab was presented in the linguistic gar.
Political Administrative Basis
Politics doesn't create regionalism it actuates regionalism. It takes advantage of regional discontent and converts in their favor to strengthen their vote bank
For Example: Insider-Outsider complexity
Economic Basis
It is the crux of regional politics, it is based on the fact that resources are limited however demands are disproportionate
The government economic policy over the years has failed to address the problem of regional disparity.
In fact it has further aggravated the regional imbalances and economic differences
It is due to this unequal distribution of the developmental benefits that there has been various demands for regionalism
Practise Question : What are the Basis of Regionalism ? It’s the Economic Inequality the most important factor binding regionalism ? (UPSC)Practise Question : Do you agree that regionalism in India appears to be a consequence of rising cultural assertiveness ? Argue (UPSC 2020)
Types of Regionalism
Supra State Regionalism
official language issue (Hindi speaking state vs. Non-Hindi states)
with respect to development issue NE vs. mainland India.
Inter-state
River water Dispute, Buffer Region
Intra-State
Vidarbha, Saurashtra, Bodoland
Demand for separate Nation
Azad Kashmir, Khalistan, Greater Nagalim
Positive and Negative of Regionalism
Regionalism does not always act as a threat to national integration.
Positive impact
it contributes to the process of nation-building by accommodating federal sentiments.
It helps in fulfilling regional aspirations and demands
By accepting the regional demand it guarantees the right of self-determination to the people
Not always regional interest is against the national Interest for example through 5th and 6th schedules ensured the protection as well as preservation of the unique culture of the indigenous people which helped the nation to realize the essence of the salt bowl theory of multiculturalism both in later or spirit.
In fact, it keeps political extremism at bay.
At times regionalism becomes the proxy for session extremism etc, for example in the context of Punjab during the demand of Khalistan
Negative impact
it becomes a threat to national unity when people indulge in parochial regionalism
For Eg: An attack on migrant labor from Bihar by ULFA (United Liberation Front of Asom)
It often becomes the basis for vote bank politics.
It also threatened international diplomacy
It can also result in unequal distribution of resources because the presence of strong regional leaders also results in feelings of deprivation
Question : What do you mean by Regionalism ? To What extent does it pose a threat to National Integration ?
Question : In India It is the Geography, Identity and Sense of Deprivation have historically combined to drive regionalism ? Elaborate
In Elaborate consider the statement to be true and then Elaborate
Question : Regionalism need not be regarded as Unhealthy unless it takes a violent, aggressive turn and encourages the growth of secessionist tendencies.
Racial - Racial Intolerance
Mind Map
Concept of Race
Causes of Racial Intolerance
Implication
Way Forward
Concept
According to the world values survey released India and Jordan are the world’s least racially tolerant nations.
Concept: Racial tolerance is defined as a social group, consisting of people having distinct physical traits.
For Eg: Skin, Colour, facial features, the texture of hair, height, etc
Causes
Obsession with a particular race (I.e. fair complexion)
Lack of cultural synthesis. We are not aware about each others culture
Existence of stereotypical beliefs: Prejudiced Attitude
For Eg: African nationals are drug addicts
Ghettoization (due to survival tech. of invisibility) ⇒ strengthens cultural exclusion
Limited Resources (+) disproportionate (feeling of Relative depreciation) demands (+) zero-sum game theory
Various cultural platforms reInforces stereotypes
For Eg:
Media (African Nationals are Drug Addict)
Ads (Fairness Cream)
Bollywood - By Means of its cinema and stories setting beauty standard
Fringe elements: fan the sentiments of ignorant people against different racial groups
Wrong Subjective Interpretation of Objective Reality
Lack of racial sensitive attitude among law enforcement officials
Lack of Deterrence against these kinda crimes
Colonial Hangover
Cultural Chauvinism
Infatuation with white color
Fight for Middle Class Jobs
Implication
Mind Map
Individual Level
Denies life with dignity
It undermines confidence
Limited opportunity for social mobility
Sense of alienation
Limited access to resources
Societal Level
Integration of diverse communities (Unity in Diversity)
It creates social strife/conflict
Collective orientation
Positively impacting social harmony.
Ghettoization
Nation Level
Potential of India to emerge as business + educational hub
Negatively impacting the bilateral relation (Africa)
Negatively impacting the potential to reap benefits of demographic dividend
Threatens the potential of India to emerge as a global power.
Way Forward
There should be a sensitization program that should focus on India’s obsession with a particular race
Charismatic personalities should come forward to lend their voice to the problem of racial intolerance
The police need to be sensitized and trained with respect to dealing with racial traits
Confidence-building measures should be carried out to assure racial minorities regarding their security and well-being
Educational institution needs to be more accommodative and inclusive
Holding workshop by the govt. or the civil society to create awareness about the culture of racial minorities.
Bezbaruah Committee Recommendations wrt North-Eastern Students
Stringent Law needs to the hour
Establishing fast-track courts for pending cases
An educational intervention to bring about the changes in the attitude of the people towards racial minorities
Creating a special police force
social media outreach
Legal awareness champions to create awareness
bonding powers over sports can also be exploited
Different agencies of socialization for eg: family social media needs to undergo a change with respect to the values that they are inculcating in their children
For Eg: the values system needs to be neutral with respect to primordial identity, such as race, ethnicity, religion, etc
UPSC Question : Briefly discuss the factor responsible for racial intolerance in India and suggest some measures to address this Challenge (10 Marks / 150 Words)Question : Define the Concept of Race ? Discuss the factors responsible for Racial Intolerance in India and Suggest some measure around it.
Ethnic - Ethno Nationalism
Mind Map
Concept
Ethnic Group is defined as a social group consisting of people united by ties of a common culture, history, ancestry, etc
People of a group have awareness about how they are similar but distinct from others
The Process of Ethno Nationalism for Tamil Discrimination
Development of Ethnic identity.
Differential access to resources → by Ceylon Citizenship Act & declaring Sihanles as State Language of Sri Lanka
Ethnic Stratification
Ethnic Antagonism
Subjective Realization of objective Reality
Example: Srilanka there are two groups, Sinhalese Ethnic group and Tamil Ethnic group
LTTE : Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elum
Book Name: Sanjiv Barhua's book "India against itself: Assam & Politics of Nationality"
He identified 3 factors responsible for the emergence of Bodo identity and demand for Bodoland
The dominance of Bengali people in the government jobs
Illegal migration from Bangladesh resulted in the displacement of traditional workers in agriculture.
Outnumbering of native tribes in electoral roles due to influx of Bengalis.
Question : Linguistic, Religion rather than religious identity have been the basis of ethnonationalism in India. Discuss. ( 10 Marks / 150 Words )
Aspects of Stratification
Unity in Diversity
Mind Map
Unity in Diversity
Concept
Unity in diversity is a phrase that signifies the unity among people with diverse cultural, religious beliefs, social statuses, and other demographic differences.
It refers to a sense of oneness
It refers to the bond which holds the members of society together
It can be either on basis of uniformity or differences
Bonds of Unity in India
Geographical Factor for Unity
Geo Political Unity
the first bond of unity in India was found in geopolitical integration
India is geographically united marked by the Himalayas in the norths and oceans on the sides.
Amidst this geographical unity, we stand politically united as we share common political culture, same constitution, single citizenship, etc.
Geo Cultural Unity
Temple culture plays a significant part in promoting cultural affinity and interaction with people living in different parts of India
Hence it is the source of unity that is reflected in the network of shrines and sacred places
Regional Factor for Unity
Amidst the caste diversity in a particular region, there exists a thread of vertical unity of common language
Amidst the Regional diversity, there exists a thread of horizontal unity based on common caste traits.
Cultural Factor for Unity
Religion: Intra and Inter
Intra: Hinduism: sects, cults, etc. Amidst Intra Religious diversity, these exist teachings of common religious scriptures which act as a unifying thread
Inter: Hinduism Islam and Christianity: Amidst inter-religious diversity, there exists a common thread of unity i.e. earning religious merit through uniting religious shrines.
Language:
Amidst the linguistic diversity. Hindi and English act as a unifying thread.
For Eg Epic: Retold in different languages (diversity)
It has a touch of divinity + is considered sacred by the common man (unity).
Diversity in Unity && Unity in Diversity
There is a feeling of togetherness and integration in unity
It is the spirit that holds people together and a bond that connotes a sense of fairness
Unity stands for relations between different groups that bind them into a single unit
Unity in Diversity is an expression used for harmony and peace. It is used among diversified groups so that they can be uniform among tolerance
Diversity in Unity: Diversities may include caste, creed, color, and nationality. It also includes physical, cultural, linguistic, and political differences.
It teaches all humans and living beings to be united and find ways to bond with each other ignoring the differences. This will lead to an environment in which people can stay together peacefully.
Secularism
Mind Map
Concept
It is defined as principle of separation of government institution and people who have the mandate to represent the state from religious institution and dignitaries
It is devoid of both inter and intra-religious domination
It involves a separation between State and religion.
However based on the Nature & Extent of Separation depends upon the values it intends to promote.
Models of Secularism
US Model of Secularism
Given by Thomas Jefferson
The sphere of politics is separated from the sphere of religion. The state shall not adopt any religion as state religion
No one shall be discriminated against based on the religion he/she practices
The sphere of politics is mutually exclusive vis-a-vis sphere of religion
The rationale behind the USA state model is - religion constitutes private affairs hence the state should not interfere. Hence it offers no scope for state-supported religious reforms
French Model of Secularism
Also known as a Laicite, meaning is Secularity
The sphere of politics is separated from the sphere of religion
They don’t support/encourage nor discourage any
They don’t interfere in religion until it infringes with other citizen rights/state work
Due to its commitment to complete separation any overt expression of religious symbols is prohibited in public space.
The USA secularism is known as Soft Secularism whereas in the context of France it is known as Hard Secularism
The concept of french secularism was based on a rationale that they had the history of Church domination and hence to curtail the authority of the Church any explicit expression of religious sentiments is prohibited in the public sphere
Indian Model of Secularism
Theconcept is borrowed or inspired from western society. However, is rooted in its unique socio-historical circumstances
We are a religiously pluralistic society. Hence we wanted to accommodate diversity. We wanted to ensure equal respect and space for all religions.
The state can interfere in the matter of religion:
To give effect to progressive voices within every religion and to disagree with certain aspects of religion
For Eg: Abolition of Untouchability, Criminalisation of Triple Talaq
Hence there is scope for state supported religious reforms
In the context of India, it deals with the freedom of both individual and religious minority communities
So what exists in the context of India is the "Principled Distance between State and religion” by Rajeev Bhargava
Unlike the “Armed Length Distance” between State and Religion in case of USA
The state shall remain distant from religion so that it can intervene or refrain from interference depending upon what is advisable to uphold the values of Equality, Liberty, Justice
Practise Question : Discuss to what extent the western Model of Secularism is different from that of India (150 Words / 10 Marks)
Contemporary Issues
Uniform Civil Code
Introduction
Itrefers to the body of laws pertaining to personal matters i.e. there will be a common set of laws governing all of us irrespective of our religion in our personal matters like Marriage, divorce, inheritance succession, etc
Article 44 of the constitution guarantees the state shall endeavor to secure for the citizens a Uniform Civil Code throughout the territory of India
Debate Mind Map
For Views
Women empowerment
Uniformity in Personal Laws
Reduce legal burden
End to vote bank politics
National cohesion
True secularism
Will realize the essence of constitutional provision i.e. Scientific temper
Against Views
Lack of blueprint what constitutes the UCC
Generate apprehension among the minorities
Because of this apprehension. Further, escalate the religious conflicts
The Idea of Women Empowerment is a bit too far fetched
Lack of political will due to the sensitive nature of the issue
According to the Law Commission 2018, UCC is neither necessary nor desirable at least in the current context
One of the challenges wrt UCC is instead of being viewed from the lens of progress empowerment, Justice Equality, etc
It is being seen from the prism of religious differences
This will lead to Lack of Secularized Society
The problem of cultural chauvinism, the politicization of religious issues, lack of education based on scientific temper
Conclusion
Democracies can be established in those countries which are multicultural. However, efforts should be made to end the cultural exclusion development of complementary identities and promotion of unity in diversity
National cohesion does not require the imposition of a common identity but accommodation of diversity
Hence any decision wrt article 44 on the basis of popular consensus.
Practise Question : UCC is much needed for India to progress in the 21 century. Critically AnalyzePractise Question : Discuss the possible factors which inhibit the government to implement UCC (UPSC GS 2)
The Doctrine of Essential Religious Practices (ERP)
Emerged in Shirur Mutt Case,1954. It was a Seven Judge Case
It specified how religion includes rituals, practices, etc, even dress as an integral part
Doctrine evolved to protect the practices which are considered integral to any religion
It was stated that Judiciary will decide what constitutes ERP
However, this has been the bone of contention as it is equated with an act of Judicial Papism or Judicio Papism
Santhara
Santhara is Voluntary giving up food/water so as to end life
PIL filed; Rajasthan High Court- known as “Nikhil Soni Vs Union of India” Case
Rajasthan HC Banned Santhara, 2015
Right to life does not include the Right to Die
Santhara is nothing but suicide
It does not constitute ERP
SC lifted the Ban, 2016
The high court made an error in interpreting Jain Practices
Jain Scholars were not consulted by High Court. The court should not decide whether a practice is ERP or not. If it does it is a case of “Judicio Papism”
Santhara can not be equated with Suicide which is impulsive in nature. Santhara is practiced after much deliberation
Shayara Bano Case
It considered three concepts →
Polygamy
Triple Talaq (Talaq - E - Bidat)
Nikah Halala
Govt went one step forward and brought forward Muslim Women Marriage (Protection of Rights Act)
Triple Talaq Law
Talaq-e-Bidat was declared null and void and banned
It was declared a criminal offense (3 Years Jail + Fine)
Subsistence allowance and custody will be given. however, the allowance would be decided by Magistrate
It was made cognizable (Of Information is provided by women herself or by blood relatives)
The offense was made compoundable (w/o Nikah Halala)
The couple can get back together without going through the process of Nikah Halala ; if they agree to stop legal proceedings
Bail will be granted only after hearing the wife
For Views
It served the purpose of stringent law to discourage arbitrary practice
It created the ground for gender justice
Since it did not constitutes ERP, the state intervened
It has the provision of redressal for women (allowance + custody)
It Ensures Life with Dignity
Against Views
Criminalization of civil offense
Selective Criminalization
How Muslim males from Jail will provide for the allowance
When divorce did not happen then for what is the male was punished.
In fact, it should be ‘Nikah Halala’ which should be criminalized as it is a violation of women's rights
Sabarimala Issue
Introduction
With respect to ban of entry of women (10-50 Years age) in Sabarimala Temple
Supreme Court (5 judges Bench) has lifted the ban (4:1 ratio)- Indian Young Lawyers Association Vs State of Kerala Case
Dissenting judge - Indu Malhotra
Constitution is not a Static Document : Doctrine of Living Tree
Arguments Against the restriction of women
Banning entry was derogatory for women
individual dignity of women cannot be at the mercy of the mob
Patriarchy in religion can not trump or supersede the freedom to practice religion
Exclusion on the basis of biological and physiological factors was unconstitutional. it violated the rights of women under articles 14 and 15
the prohibition was a form of practicing untouchability and hence against article 17 of the constitution. (although the dissenting argument was that article 17 was wrt caste.
however, it was refuted by quoting the Doctrine of Living Tree where it was cited that constitution is not a static document and the ambit of provisions can be widened depending upon the requirement)
Prohibition is not an essential religious practice.
Hence not prohibited under Article 25 of the constitution
Fundamental Rights are meant for their individual and not for the deities or the idols
Arguments In Favor of restriction on Women
religious communities should decide what constitutes ERP else it would be termed as an act of Judicio Papism
Judgment is confusing diversity with discrimination i.e. different temples have different customs so what is being observed in Sabarimala is not discrimination but an act of restriction
there exists a historic origin of the restriction as the entry of women in the menstruating age group was seen as antithetical to the celibate nature of deity. It was not an act of misogyny
It was challenging for women 41-day penance for deity
The unique geographical aspect of the temple should have been considered
In a pluralistic society like India entertaining PILs challenging various religious practices of various communities can cause serious damage to the constitutional and secular fabric of the country
Hijab Controversy
Amna Bint Bashir Case, Kerala HC, 2016
Hijab is an ERP
Ajmal Khan vs Election Commission
Purdah is not essential but a headscarf was obligatory
Reference of Malaysian HC
Hijab is ERP (Essential Religious Practices)
Ratilal Gandhi vs State of Bombay
No outside authority will decide whether the practise of ERP is essential or not
Bijoy Emmanuel Case
the question is not whether the practice appeals to your sensibility or reasoning
but whether the believers consider the practice to be an integral part of religion
The practitioners believe it is violative of Art 14, 19, 25 and violative of constitutional right
Population and Associated Issues***
Mind Map
Debate wrt High Population & Allied Markers
UPSC Question : Discuss whether poverty is responsible for population growth or population growth is responsible for poverty?Practise Question : What do you mean by human capital? In the context of the prospects of Human Capital enumerate the measures taken by the Indian government to achieve?Liability
Puts pressure on limited resources
Responsible for various socio-economic problems eg son of the soil theory, primordial identity, communal conflict, religious fundamentalism, the exodus of migrants, racial intolerance, ethnocentrism
Asset
If we are able to transform our potential resources into human capital
Human Capital
Introduction
Refers to the knowledge skills, health acquired through life years which enables it to realise its potential to be a productive asset for society
HCI ranges from 0 to 1
Smriti Mam’s Hand Written Notes
Education for Human Capital : Concept of MooC, ePg Pathshala, Flip Classroom
ASER Report : Although 2/3 have access to Smartphones, only 27% people are able to use mobile for online education
Challenge : Digital Illiteracy & Digital Divide
According to UN : Less than 6 percent of investment in Social Infrastructure is not worth it and cannot be called as Investment
Demography
Demography
It is the demo and graphy that is referred to as characteristics of a population
It studies the trends and processes associated with population eg birth rate, death rate, migration, structure of population, composition etc
Types of Demography
There are two Types of Demography - Formal and Social Demography
Formal Demography
deals with the statistical component of the population eg IMR, MMR, birth rate, death rate etc.
Social Demography
deals with social enquiry or social analysis wrt statistical component
Demographic Dividend
Concept
refers to economic growth potential created due to bulge in working-age group.
Statistics
According to the Economic Survey (2018-19), the Demographic dividend will peak in 2041 with 59% of the population in the range of 20-59 years
According to UNPF average age is 28 years. Going by median age India has the youngest population
How it Creates Potential for Economic Growth
Swelling of the Labour Force
The rise in savings (more income less expenditure)
The rise in domestic demand will fuel consumption
When less no of dependent population is there, Rise in Fiscal Space - the government can divert resources to invest in infrastructure
Due to the decline in fertility rate, it will increase FLFP and enhanced productivity
With greater than 65% of the working population is in the age bracket of (15-59 Years), it creates the potential for India to rise as a superpower
More people in working age population → Pressure on Govt to ensure sufficient economic activities
Expansion in working age population is only necessary condition for Economic Growth
However not sufficient. It depends on the quality of the workforce in terms of education, skilled, healthy / Nourished. There should be good job opportunities too.
It will also ensure urbanisation and industrialisation as employment seeking population will force economic activities
However, it is only a potential. It doesn't guarantee growth. It depends on two factors - Quality of workforce education, health, skill
Economic opportunities to absorb the workforce. If the youth is not channelized into a constructive manner it would lead to chaos and demographic disaster in society
Way Forward
Investment in social infrastructure
For Eg : Education, Health (Universal Health Care), Skill Development
Encourage entrepreneurship through (Startup India, Make in India)
Market relevant skill development
More infrastructure investment
Focus more on human capital development
Expand the manufacturing sector. Its labour elasticity that is, its capacity to absorb labours is high
Labour intensive jobs
Conducive ecosystem for women labour force participation
Relaxed labour laws
Ease of doing business
More domestic consumption should be promoted
Make agriculture more lucrative
Practise Question : Demographic dividend is not nurtured properly will turn into a demographic disaster. Discuss (10 Marks/150 Words)
Factors that affect the Population Change
Fertility and Statistic
Causes of High Fertility Rate
The Implication of High fertility Rat
Women - Individual
Decline in the health of the mother (high Maternal depletion syndrome) and child
Threatens the potential to emerge as a global power due to poor social indicators
Maternal depletion syndrome-When the nutritional status of women declines due to early and frequent pregnancies
The Way Forward
Focus on high economic growth
Investment in education
Ensure decline in IMR, CMR
Cairo Consensus - Focus on women health empowerment and rights
Enhance awareness of wrt the benefits of family planning contraceptives
Choice-based strategy towards family planning
Proper Spaces between Child
Death of Women during Sterilisation Camp in CG in 2015 acted as a Deterrence
Mortality
IMR is the most important indicator of the socio-economic condition of a nation because more than any other age group survival of an infant depends on their socio-economic environment
Currently, According to NFHS 5, IMR is 35.2 i.e no of children dying before the age of 1 per 1000 live births, while the target is to reduce it to a single digit by 2030.
NFHS : National Family Health Survey
Cause of High IMR
Household income is the major determinant as access to healthcare, sanitation, immunisation all depends upon the economic profile of the family
Early marriage compulsory child bearing, the practice of female infanticide
lack of girl education
lack of institutional deliveries
hygiene
absence of scientific temper
lack of access to clean cooking fuel are responsible for high IMR
Despite various schemes we have limited success due to the following reasons
one size fits approach
centralised planning
poor identification of beneficiaries
lack of funds
misappropriation of funds
red-tapism lack of infrastructure
lack of capacity building
lack of political will
Government schemes
PM Surakshit matritva Abhiyan
Janani Suraksha Yojana
Janani Shishu Suraksha Yojana
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
Migration (Discussed in July Current Affairs)
Rest from the PDF
Practise Question : With respect to regional variation in the context of fertility rate suggest the measures to tackle it
Practise Question : What are the Problems faced by Migrants in Urban Areas. Suggest some measures to address these problems. (10 M)Practise Question : Given the scale of Internal Migration in India. Highlight the challenges faced by these migrants. (10 M)
Child Issues
Who is a Child
There is no standard definition
According to the child labor Act(<14 year)
Factories Act(<15)
Juvenile Justice Act (<16)
POCSO(<18)
According to UNCRC, Every individual (<18) is a child's obligation on us to have a domestic policy to give effect to UNCRC
MWCD prepared NPAC (National plan of action for children): In 2013, the govt. came up with a national policy for children to give effect to UNCRC
National Policy for Children (2013)
Introduction
Every individual (<18) is a child
UNCRC said, By virtue of being a child has 4 FR’s:
Survival
Development
Protection
Participation to give effect to the provision of the policy
To give effect to the provision of the policy, MWCD prepared NPAC(National Plan of Action for children)
NCAG (National coordination Action Group) is responsible for implementation of this plan of action
National Plan of Action for Children
Survival : Universal Immunization
Universalization of Maternal & Child Health
Robust + Quality in Pre, Peri and Post Natal Care
Development: Quality + Accessibility, Availability, and Affordability + Early Childhood care & education + Secondary Education
Protection: Strengthening of the legislature, administration, and institutional mechanisms to ensure child protection
Participation: Active participation of children with respect to planning and implementation of policies concerning them.eg: BAL Panchayat.
Quote: There is no keener revelation of the soul of the society than the treatment given to its children.- Nelson Mandela.
Child Sexual Abuse
Statistics
There was a study which conducted by MWCD that 53% of children are subjected to the sone of the other's abuse.
Out of which in more than 90% of cases the culprits is a known person.
However, only 6% of the cases are reported.
So, based on this statistic we can conclude that child abuse is shrouded in secrecy
Socio-Economic Factors for Causes
Psychological Factors for Causes
Psychopath nature
Victim of child abuse
Broken Window Theory - Pehli Chori pe agar punishment nahin mili toh agli chori karega baccha
Lack of deterrence due to the stigma associated with leading to poor reporting.
POCSO Act
POCSO Act 2012
POCSO Rules 2020
Practise Question : In the Backdrop of Increasing incidents against children, suggest some problems ?
Answer : Rules of POCSO (In General) - Can be a Good Way Forward for Child Sexual Abuse
Status of POCSO** (remember some data)
Challenges wrt POCSO Act Implementation (remember the data)
Way Forward
Practise Question : To what extent POCSO Act has been able to address the menace of Child Sexual Abuse ?Section 354 of IPC v/s POCSO
Child Labor
Concept, Statistics & Effect Against Child Labor
Premise & Key Findings
Causes of Child Labor
Lacunae
Way Forward
Effect of Covid 19 on Child Labor
Provisions of Child Labor Act
Shortcomings
DM is overburdened with the responsibility
No Accountability of Fund ; No Auditing of Funds
Household Work Employment of Child > 80%
No Special Approval of Parliament Needed
National Child Labor Project & Pencil Project - Prelims Specific Facts
ILO
Practise Question : Examine the reasons behind prevalence of Child Labor in India ? What steps have been taken by the Indian Govt for addressing the Menace of Child Labor ?
Juvenile Delinquency
Introduction
Causes - Social / Group Factors
Reference Group Theory by Robert K Merton - Need for Right Kind of Vicarious Reinforcement
Sub Culture: Agar Group hi sab chor hain, toh chori se aapka group aapko rokega nahin
Labeling - Delinquent Labeling should be prevented - Need for right kind of socialisation
Causes - Individual Factors
Juvenile Justice Act
Crime Committed
< 16 - One Age Group
16-18 - Tried as an Adult on Heinous Offence as said by Juvenile Court
Full Forms
CARINGS
Child Adoption Resource Information & Guidance System
CARA - Central Adoption Resource Authority
Inter-Country and In-Country Adoption
CWC - Child Welfare Committees
CCI - Child Care Institution
DCPU - District Child Protection Unit
Summary of Act
Benefits of New Bill
Concerns wrt Bill
Way Forward
Practise Question : What do you mean by Juvenile Delinquency ? Highlight the factors responsible for increase in Juvenile Delinquency Cases ?
Child Marriage
Practise Question : Despite Existence of Legal Provisions, the practise of child marriage still persistStatistics and Causes
Desired Male Child : Son Meta Preference
Implication of Child Marriage
Key Highlights of the Bill for Marriageable Age to be 21
Why has the Bill has been introduced to increase the age of Marriage to 21
Arguments Against the Bill for Age of 21
Way to Forward
Child Marriage Act
Functions of Prohibition Officer
Transgender
Introduction
Referred as those people whose sex assigned at birth do not match their gender identity
Based on gender identity:
Male → Female (Transwomen)
Female → Male (Transmen)
Intersex → At the time of birth, does not have any reproductive system
Provision to Protect Transgender
Challenges Faced by Transgender
Way Forward
Provisions of Transgender Act
Key Issues
National Council for Transgenders
Practise Question : wrt to the challenges faced by transgenders, to what extent national council for transgenders would be able to address or ensure their empowerment ?
From Notes - By Self
Old Age PWD
Mind Map
Urbanization & Globalisation
Urbanisation
Concept
Urbanisation is defined as movement of people to the Urban Areas. It not only involves the physical movement, but also change in occupation or means of livelihood that is from agriculture to trade services etc.
It also includes change in attitude, beliefs and value system. It is referred as way of life in urban areas
It refers to organisation of society in the following terms for example
Complex Division of Labour
Heterogeneity
Anonymity
Individualism
High Mobility
Statistics
According to Census 2011, 31.18 Percent of the population in the Urban Areas.
It is expected to increase to 41% by 2030 according to UN State of World Population Report.
According to the united nation world population report
The city contributes to 70% of India's GDP, According to the C. Rangarajan panel report, 26.4% of the urban population is below the poverty line
17% of the urban population live in slums
13% of the urban population do not have access to toilet facilities
30% no access to safe drinking water
A report published by NITI Aayog says 21 cities run out of groundwater in 2020
National Consumer Disputes Redressal, says a 7.3% increase in crime cases
Types of Urbanisation
Over Urbanization:
when the level of urbanization ser passes the level of industrialization then it is referred to as over urbanization or when the population is more than the infrastructure.
Sub Urbanization:
When the cost of living in the core area is high due to over urbanization it results into expansion of cities in the fringes. This concept is known as sub-urbanization
There are various Push(-ve) and Pull(+ve) factors that result in sub-urbanization
The Push factor is the high cost of living in over urbanized areas.There is believed core areas are overcrowded, polluted, and dirty also core areas are emerging dense crime
The Pull factor is attractive, affordable real state prices, increase living space, more close to nature, development of public transport which connects the fringe areas to core areas also in some cases it is the development of new work culture i.e. work from home
Counter Urbanisation:
It refers to the social & demographic process where people move back from urban areas to sources regions due to inner-city deprivation, poor quality of life, lack of sustainable livelihood, pollution, etc
Problems Associated with Urbanisation
Unplanned Urbanization
Rapid urbanization had led to the development of cities without urban planning. This has made the entire planning unsustainable
It poses a great threat to development in terms of delivery of services and living conditions
Only focus on Rural Poor but not on Urban Poverty
World Bank estimated that 2035, most of the extreme poor will be living in the cities because cities have failed to develop in the backdrop of unplanned urbanisation
Problems of Housing and Slums Proliferation
A general perception existing was that migration was seen as the prime reason for the proliferation of slums. However, according to experts group on urban poverty observed it is the result of the failure of housing policies.
Problems Related to Housing:
improper city planning i.e. exist heritage of past construction
Lack of integrated planning i.e. the entire focus is on land used without taking note of transportation socio-economic means environmental concern etc
Private developers are not interested in affordable housing as it is less profit-yielding
concept of gated community has reduced the availability and accessibility of the land
the govt. has also failed to implement the existing policy for eg: National Urban Housing and implement policy
Problems Related to Slums:
Slums are defined as those residential dwellings
They are considered unfit for human habitation because they are overcrowded, poorly ventilated, they lack access to basic resources with respect to WASH (Water, Sanitation, Hygiene)
Slums are defined as a transitional phenomenon with respect to a fast-growing economy
However it has now become a persistent problem which is the result of policy failure, poor governance, and unsanitary living condition
Slums are characterized by increased incidences of crime, high vulnerability of women, substance abuse, diminishing human capital, etc
Factors Responsible to Slums
Sub-Culture of Poverty - Garmi aur Gareebi Mehsoos Karne pe Zyada Lagti Hai
Politically active community
Economically Active (informal economy thrive in slums)
Immense Resilience and Adaptive capability
Lack of infrastructure, resources, political will, administration laccity, lack of coordinated planning, lack of funds
Way Forward
Tackling rural-urban migration i.e. smart cities can never be successful until and unless you develop smart villages
Developing social security net for slum dwellers in cities
Sustainable urban development
making cities safe and sustainable means ensuring access to safe and affordable housing,
upgrading slums settlements,
ensuring basic necessities like clean drinking water, health clinics, toilets, etc
It also includes reducing the vulnerability of women, elderly or old age people, children, etc
Employment generation
needs to create opportunities for migrates and avenues
Capacity building in urban local bodies
Affordable housing
with the rising cost of land there is an urgent need to develop affordable housing for slums dwellers. for
Eg: For the Scheme Housing for All in-situ
The problems wrt Physical Infrastructure
Problems associated with transport for
For Eg: Absence of plan and adequate arrangement for traffic and transport.
The use of private vehicle instead of public transport further worsen the problem
The design and maintenance of the city road is also the major challenge
For Eg: Pedestrian unfriendly, Constantly Dug, congested, etc
Metro rails can be developed in the city so as to act as an efficient source of public transportation
The problem exists with respect to water supply, drainage, sanitation, etc.
For Eg: problems of landfills, the nonexistence of drainage system, removal of the garbage
The Problems wrt Socio Cultural Issues
Residential areas in cities all over the world are segregated on the basis of primordial identity
This segregation causes tension and gives rise to a special pattern of communal violence
There are increased incidences of crime due to inadequate social infrastructure with respect to education, skill development, employment, etc
Slums are socially isolated areas and characteristics by pathological behavior
Urban areas are characterized by impersonality, the disintegration of joint families, the emergence of dual-career families
It results in social isolation which has a negative impact specifically with respect to old people and children.
Resource competition breaches regionalism which results in various social conflicts. (Son of Soil policy).
The absence of community orientation, corruption of value systems, etc have aggravated the vulnerability of the marginalized sectors.
The feeling of relative deprivation has resulted in widening social cleavages.
The discrepancy with respect to to demand and supply has created grounds for politicization on the basis of primordial identities, hence it has become the new normal.
Over All Way Forward
Inclusive cities:
The poor and low-income groups should be mainstream i.e the planning should include the needs of the marginalized
For Eg: health facility affordable housing, transport, etc
Integrate various urban development programs to develop sustainable cities
Several sources of funding need to be trapped to reduce dependence on cities on centers and states
For Eg : Public Private partnerships, monetization of land Assets, higher collection of properties tax, etc
A cascaded planning structure is a need for the hours
Cascaded - Plan within Plan, Layered Planning, Short Goal with Inner Goal
Linking public transport with zoning for affordable houses for the low-income groups
Low capacity:
efforts should be local capacity building that is the development of expertise in urban local bodies, development of professional managers for urban management functions.
Separate cadre for cities administrators
New Models of development need to be explored for example transport-oriented development or hub & spoke model of development
Encourage rental housing
UPSC Question : Discuss Various Social Problems which originated out of Speeding process of Urbanisation in India. Practise Question : Why on one hand, urbanisation is creating potential for social integration and economic development and on the other hand it is leading to socio economic exclusion. Explain the Paradox Practise Question : Discuss the Significance of Sustainable Urbanisation. What are the challenges which needs to be addressed in realising the goal of sustainable urbanisation. Practise Question : Rather than being a transitory phenomenon of fast growing economies. The slums pose deeper persistent structural problem in context of India
Globalisation
Concept
Is the process of increasing interdependence, interconnectedness, and integration of economics and societies to such an extent that change in one part of the world affects people in other parts
Homogenisation of Culture & Preservation of Diversity & Pluralism
Glocalisation → Mac Aloo, No Beef in Mac D
Emergence of Nuclear Families → Disintegration of Joint Families
Proliferation of God Men
Impact of Globalisation on Women
Positive impact
Increased opportunities for women in the labor market.
Independence + self confidence
Urbanization = ideology of urbanism = Better status for women
Development of entrepreneurial attitude
Feminist movement = vocal with respect to their ideas, awareness with respect to rights & entitlements
Social empowerment: Access to education and opportunities and awareness = Autonomy + leadership
Freedom of choice with respect to marriage, children, etc.
Gender-specific policymaking.
Negative impact
Increased burden of work
Commodification and objectification of women.
Increased incidences of violence (gross border crime).
Informalization of workforce + concentration of women.
Globalization competition positive revival of education
Best opportunities in the world can be availed through Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) + exchange programs.
Promoted acceptance of cultural diversity.
Secular education + exoteric education.
Exoteric - Available to All, Esoteric : Available to Few
Negative
Homogenization of education (Stripping away rich indigenous culture)
glorification of western education model + undermining of local knowledge.
Increased pressure on the education system due to competition.
Social Exclusion: Preference of English language, Limited access due to commercialization, privatization, competitive screening, Lack of value-based education, etc.
Impact of Globalisation on Youth
With respect to lifestyle changes: excessive reliance on gadgets, sedentary lifestyle, junk food culture lifestyle diseases, etc.
Education
youth stands to benefits from increased awareness and accessibility to education and literacy.
However, it is biased against the rural youth.
Employment
the opportunities are created for urban youth through skilled and well-Paying jobs.
However, it is biased against rural youth.
Value System
with secularisation youth has become more secular with respect to matters of marriage accommodation common salary
In the absence of agencies of social control and increased inspiration, there is an increased incidence of criminal activities.
Impact of Globalisation on Family
Mind Map
Structure
The disintegration of Joint families
Disintegration of Household and not family
The emergence of the new family
nuclear family with extended ties
property division occurred, but marital with blood relations occurred, ceremonies attended
single parent
exercise of parenthood
no stigma to divorce, abortion, separation, legal notions
Pre marital not a taboo
surrogacy
Secularisation
female-headed
male specific distress migration
cohabitation/live indual career (both work - both h & W working)conjugal symmetrical (equal status to both men and women)
Interpersonal Relationships
Democratic Parenting seen over Authoritative Parenting
Democratic relationship and status of women has improved
Ties with extended family have improved due to social media
Functions
Economic Function of Family has Changed
The economic function has changed due to the emergence of industrialisation
It has led to a factory system of production and family is now reduced to the unit of consumption
Educational Role of Family
Also, with globalisation, there are diverse job opportunities that have led to the specialised institution of knowledge and have changed the education role of joint family
Role of Family for Spouse Selection
The role of the family with respect to spouse selection with respect to spouse selection
Conclusion
However, with respect to the primary socialisation agency of social control (it is still performed)
Impact of Globalisation on Caste
Mind Map
Traditional
Hierarchy
Separation of contact
Occupational division of labour
Based on purity and pollution
Forces of Change
Industrialization
Urbanization
Modern Value System
Role of state - reservation, Land reforms, Universal adult franchise, Mandal Commission report
Contemporary Reality
Reservation
With Industrialization there were diverse job opportunities, based on skills, rather than caste; caste neutral job opportunities which challenge the occupation division of labour
Urbanisation has led to urbanism which led to anonymity heterogeneity and a secular pattern of living where the separation of contact of the traditional caste system is challenged
With the modern value system, there is rationality/scientific temper which is questioning hierarchy on the basis of purity and pollution
Due to reservation policy, the lower caste got access to higher education, govt jobs, political power etc and secular status/hierarchy is improving
However, the benefits of the reservation are not equally reaped by all and hence it led to the emergence of class within caste or elitism
Land Reforms
With the emergence of land reforms, there emerged a section who irrespective of their status in traditional caste hierarchy became socially dominant due to land ownership and political power
Mandal Commission & Conclusion
Mandal Commission Report has led to an alteration in the traditional structure of the caste system which led to the modern avatar of caste
Instead of vertical arrangement based on stigma, there was the emergence of horizontal competition for backward status without any stigma
Although caste has been dislodged from the religious domain due to industrialisation, urbanization, modern value system
However, it has entered the consciousness especially during electoral politics
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Hierarchy - Ritual Hierarchy & Secular Hierarchy
Farmer own land but Peasants don't own land
Impact of Globalisation on Marriage
The purpose of marriage has changed - For Money, Job & Career - Not for Love
The age of the marriage has changed
The nature of the marriage has changed - value based ethos not found
Types of marriage have changed
Alternative to marriages have arrived
Threats to institutions of marriage - Corruption of Value System, Adultery
The secularisation of marriages - inter caste and inter religious marriages
