indian society essay upsc

A1 Perspectives on the Study of Indian Society

Table of contents, topics of interest for cse:.

• Indology (G S Ghurye)
• Structural functionalism (M N Srinivas)
• Marxist sociology

UPSC Sociology Previous Year Questions from this topic

• Elaborate A. R. Desai's perspective to the study of Indian society. (UPSC 2020, 10 marks)
• Elaborate Srinivas's views on religion and society among the Coorgs. (UPSC 2019, 10 marks)
• Give an account of Ranajit Guha's approach in studying 'subaltern class'. (UPSC 2019, 10 marks)
• Write a note on G.S. Ghurye's Indological perspective of understanding Indian society . (UPSC 2018, 10 marks)
• Analyze A.R. Desai's views on India's path of development. (UPSC 2018, 20 marks)
• Write a critique of the structural and functional perspective used by M. N. Srinivas in the understanding of Indian society. (UPSC 2017, 10 marks)
• Write short notes with a sociological perspective: Salient Features of A.R. Desai’s Marxist Sociology. (UPSC 2016, 10 marks)
• Discuss Marxist approach to the analysis of Indian nationalism. (UPSC 2015, 20 marks)
• Write short notes with a sociological perspective on the following in 150 words: G.S. Ghurye's Indological approach to understand society in India. (UPSC 2014, 10 marks)
• Write short note with a sociological perspective: M.N. Srinivas's concept of westernisation. (UPSC 2013, 10 marks)

(a) INDOLOGY

Indology is a perspective of studying Indian society which holds that the nature of Indian thought and psychological make-up (characterised by holism, and collectivism ) is essentially different from that of the west (primacy of individual, freedom, liberty ), so in order to better understand it, it must be understood in terms of Indian thinking, traditions, and philosophy. According to MN Srinivas , Indology can be called the textual view of Indian society. It has nothing to do with the conditions on the ground, rather it deals with the ideas of Indian society as mentioned in classical religious texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, Dharma Shastra, Manusmriti, Mahabharata, Ramayana etc. The orientalist/Indologist view of India offers a picture of the society as static, timeless, and spaceless . These scholars emphasize the role of traditions and groups as the basis of social relations rather than individuals. They also consider religion, ethics, and philosophy as the basis of the social organisation rather than interpersonal or group dynamics. The British, borrowing from their own traditions to understand Indian tradition through texts (from the known to the unknown), made a fundamental error in over-emphasizing the elements of discreteness of Indian social entities and neglecting the linkages between them which bound these entities into an organic whole. The rigidness that became one of the defining attributes of the caste system in the British era was in part caused by the British system of administration and jurisprudence.

G.S. GHURYE

Focus points: caste, tribes, culture, and national unity. Govind Sadashiv Ghurye stressed that Indian tradition is Hindu tradition and felt that to understand Indian society one must understand Hindu traditions. BK Nagla says he created a kind of Hindu sociology .

Ghurye studied caste from a historical, comparative and integrative perspective. He identified six basic features of caste system:

• Segmental division.
• Lack of choice of occupations for each segment.
• Purity and pollution associated with the occupation.
• Hierarchy of these divisions based on purity and pollution.
• Commensal and conjugal relations. (Civil/religious disabilities/privileges of sections)
• Restrictions on marriage. (Caste endogamy and Gotra/Pinda exogamy) Ghurye laid emphasis on endogamy as the most important feature of the caste system. The rules of endogamy and commensality marked off castes from each other. These rules acted as integrative instruments which organised segmented castes into a totality or collectivity.

Ghurye believed that the tribes had been Hinduised after a long period of contact and acculturation. He felt that it was futile to look for a different identity for tribes, rather they should be treated as backward caste Hindus . He felt that this backwardness was a result of their imperfect integration into the Hindu society and that could only be improved by their acculturation. Ghurye debated with Verrier Elwin about the issue of tribals. Elwin held that tribals should be left to their own devices while Ghurye was a strong proponent of acculturation. Finally, Nehru's view of assimilation prevailed.

On Culture & Civilization

According to Ghurye culture constitutes the central element for understanding society and its evolution. For him the challenging task of a sociologist in India was to analyse the complex acculturation process in India, he refers to how the caste system was developed by Brahmins and how it spread to other sections of the society. He identified five foundations of culture which cut across problems of civilisation growth:

• Religious consciousness.
• Conscience.
• Pursuit of knowledge and free expression.
• Toleration.

Ghurye felt that religion is at the center of the total cultural heritage of man , it moulds and directs behaviour of man in society. He recognised the importance of the concept of reincarnation and the changing concept of godhead in Indian society.

On National Unity

As a sociologist, he was interested in the concept of integration and the process of national unity in India. Ghurye held that while groups play an integrational role in society that is true only up to a certain extent. He felt that in modern Indian society there were five sources of danger to national (basically Hindu) unity due to their excessive attachment to their groups:

• Scheduled castes.
• Scheduled tribes.
• Backward classes.
• Muslims and minority groups.
• Linguistic minorities . (Greatest source of danger according to Ghurye)

Ghurye majorly viewed the brahminical endeavour as the cause of national unity in India and thus while he calls it the process of acculturation, it is basically a one-way flow in which brahminical ideas and institutions gained prevalence among non-Brahmins. Ghurye’s concept of cultural unity is not secular in nature. He is concerned with the India of Hindu culture and uses Indian and Hindu culture interchangeably. He viewed regional language as having a symbolic integration value for the region i.e. dysfunctional for the whole.

• He contributed to building sociology that was completely Indian in orientation and with his deep knowledge of Hinduism he contributed greatly in many spheres.

Critique of Ghurye's Indological Perspective

• The biggest limitation of his understanding of India was that he never acknowledged the contribution of Christianity and Islam to the cultural pluralism of India .
• Ghurye failed to recognise that a qualitative change has occurred in the dynamics of Indian unity in modern India. His knowledge of India’s past instead of helping him stood in his way of gaining a better understanding of contemporary Indian society.
• SC Dube says that his approach is mostly criticised as culture-bound, myopic, textual, and Brahmanic view of India but since most other approaches developed as reflexive critiques of Ghurye's writings his impact on Indian sociology cannot be discounted.
• His view that the development of a regional language could lead to disunity is also claimed to be an oversimplification. Ex. Eco Survey 2016-17 noted that language was not a barrier to trade within India.
• He also failed to appreciate that the political involvement of caste as an outcome of the collective mobilization process in modern India.

(b) STRUCTURAL FUNCTIONALISM

Structural functionalism originated as a tradition in British Anthropology. It came to the fore with Radcliffe-Brown ’s critique of Malinowski ’s functionalism. It assumes that society is made up of interconnected and interdependent parts, which make up a unified whole (structure). These parts serve the needs of the society, and are thereby functional (organismic analogy). (Three postulates: unified whole, universal functionalism, indispensable parts)

M.N. SRINIVAS

Srinivas didn’t go for a strictly SF approach, he changed approaches as per the requirements. It is retrospectively that his followers and critics labeled him as a structural-functionalist. He believed that both Indologists and Marxists before him had been very ambitious in trying to understand Indian society at a macro level despite its huge population and numerous variations. He advocated an approach that was both logical and acceptable to study Indian society. Srinivas is credited with initiating the tradition of macro generalisations based on micro anthropological insights (village studies) in Indian sociology.

He used the Structural Functionalist approach to study caste. Srinivas held that due to a large number of castes in India ( more than 20,000 ) it was impossible to empirically study all of them in their innumerable variations. He advocated that to better understand the caste system, it would be better to look into the structure of caste itself. Srinivas identified two distinct hierarchies of caste: a ritual and a secular hierarchy . The position of a caste in the ritual hierarchy is defined by commensal relations, ritual status, values, deities one prayed to, and speech. Secular criteria were defined by wealth, power, access to education and jobs, etc. Using these he formulated the theories of Sanskritization, Westernisation (as avenues for social mobility), and Dominant Caste.

Theory of Sanskritization by M N Srinivas:

Sanskritization is a process of mobility in the ritual hierarchy , usually preceded by upward mobility in the secular hierarchy . The group undergoing Sanskritization changes their ritual patterns (commensal relations, teetotalism, vegetarianism, etc.) to reflect those of the target group (dvija caste) over time in order to improve their ritual status. He also observed that mobility had always been possible especially in the middle of the caste hierarchy . He called this process Sanskritization instead of brahmanisation as some places also exhibited the tendency to move towards other dvija castes too (thus a broader outlook than simply brahmanisation). Ex movement of Marathas towards claiming a status of Kshatriyas similar to Rajputs. This concept was developed by Srinivas in his study of Coorgs (Religion and Society Among the Coorgs). He cited examples of how the Kayasthas of Bengal had taken up administrative functions during the Mughal rule and thus improved their ritual hierarchy greatly through advances in the secular hierarchy.

Theory of Westernization by M N Srinivas:

Westernization , similarly, was the process by which either an upper caste or the lowest castes (places with limited mobility in the traditional structure) adopted western habits, traditions, education, etc. to gain mobility in status. Other castes too used this method but it must be noted that the uppermost and lowest castes could only use this as other means of mobility were blocked for them.Westernisation happened at three levels:

• Primary - interacted with the western culture directly
• Secondary - interacted with the primary beneficiaries
• Tertiary - indirect contact with western customs.

Y. Singh says that westernisation led to:

• Growth of a universal legal system
• Expansion of education
• Urbanisation and industrialisation
• Increased network communication

Theory of Dominant caste

Dominant caste is an important concept to understand the rural social life in any part of India according to Srinivas. Typical features of a dominant caste in a village are:

• Numerical strength,
• Economic and political power, and
• Western education and occupations.

Dominant castes dominate the secular hierarchy but not necessarily the ritual hierarchy. When a caste enjoys all of the above at the same time, it can be said to enjoy decisive dominance . However, decisive dominance is rare, with the different elements being dispersed among various groups. A caste that is dominant in a number of villages in an area may be said to have regional dominance . This concept was developed in his study of Rampura village titled the Remembered Village . Srinivas considers caste as a stratification system , and caste positions and relations as dynamic in nature. So, he concludes that this understanding of caste can be applied to both micro and macro levels.

M N Srinivas on Indian Villages

Srinivas’ understanding of Indian villages is neither textual nor cultural. He dismisses Louis Dumont’s mono-causal approach to understand Indian society in terms of purity and pollution and instead argues that every Indian carries multiple identities . People from a single caste are divided on the basis of family and kinship; people from a single village are divided on the basis of caste, and villagers stand united forgetting all divisions against the outside world. Basically like the Bedouin proverb: me against my brother; I and my brother against my cousin; I, my brother, and my cousin against the world. Thus, he concludes that while caste provides horizontal solidarity to groups, villages provide vertical solidarity . He adds that Jajmani relations further bolstered the vertical solidarity as do power/rivalry factions. In doing so he opposes the views of Dumont who holds that there is no solidarity outside of the caste group.

He advocated village studies in order to understand:

• The social structure of village communities,
• Specific structural characters of a given village.

Srinivas never said that the village is a representation of Indian society in general . Rather he held that by studying villages located in various parts of the country we can gather enough information about the continuity and change in village traditions and norms. By doing so, we would be able to understand the continuity and change experienced by the Indian society as a whole. Thus, his views liberated Indian sociology from the determinism of Indology and Marxist approaches and introduced the traditions of empirical studies and intensive fieldwork in the realm of Indian sociology. He can be credited with leading a shift from the book view to the field view perspective .

On New Avatar of Caste

In his analysis of Indian unity, he writes that despite the people of India being divided on the basis of religion, language, and caste; common cultural consciousness and emotive consciousness promote unity among them. He coined the term AJGaR (Ahir, Jat, Gujjar, and Rajput) to indicate how prosperous agricultural communities were forgetting caste differences to claim political power in states . This position took him closer to the Marxist view of how caste is evolving into class in India. Srinivas noted that in contemporary India, the conflict between upper and lower castes was missing. Rather the conflict was between OBCs (Yadavs) and Dalits (BSP) who in the case of UP had thrown out Brahmins and Rajputs from the power structure. Thus, castes with similar class interests were fighting against each other . Similar is the case of AJGaR, Ahirs and Jats are engaged in rivalry at the village level but come together as backward castes to gain reservation. He also talked about vote-bank politics and the transformation of caste system into casteism. Thus, he tried to disprove the Marxist notion of caste evolving into a class due to the numerous internal frictions.

Critique of M N Srinivas's Structural Functionalism

• As the founder of modern sociology in India, he was not committed to any particular approach or theory, rather he adapted his approach as he went along. He began as an Indologist and moved on to structural functionalism and used various other approaches in his vast array of works.
• Yogendra Singh considers MNS’ sociology as a form of objective idealism , i.e. undergoing both continuity and change. Objective because he used empirical methods and idealists 'cause he believed that India can never go for absolute change or modernity.
• Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak holds that it is because of Srinivas that Indian society was studied from a caste perspective till the 80s. The subaltern perspective is important.
• Dalit scholars consider that Srinivas was a Brahmanic sociologist much like Ghurye . While Ghurye celebrated Hindu culture, Srinivas celebrated Sanskritization.
• His concept of Sanskritization is no longer valid in today’s society. Middle and lower castes have begun opting for westernisation and political representation by mass mobilisation instead to gain social mobility.
• Dominant caste too is no longer a valid concept in rural areas. OBCs and lower castes have successfully displaced the traditional upper castes like Brahmins and Rajputs from the power structure of the states. Also since the Jajmani relations have broken down , the traditional patronage system no longer works to maintain the dominance of the land-owning castes.
• Srinivas' approach has been termed as brahminical by his critics. When he speaks of Sanskritization and speaks against reservation it can be said that the Brahmin in Srinivas supersedes the sociologist in Srinivas.

(c) MARXIST SOCIOLOGY

There is not one rather many Marxist approaches to study Indian society. While Marxists and Indologists share the dialectical approach, the Marxists criticise the Indologists’ sociological position while explaining Indian society.

EMS Namboodirapad:

• Building of India on modern democratic and secular lines requires a struggle against the caste-based Hindu society and its culture.
• Socialist secular democracy cannot exist unless the division of society into a hierarchy of castes is broken.
• The struggle for radical democracy and socialism cannot be separated from the struggle against caste society.

The first Marxist analysis of Indian society was done by S.A. Dange , the father of the CPI.

• He held that the rituals performed by the Brahmins were not initially a cultural act, rather it was a ritual to increase production in agriculture, increase soil fertility, etc.
• Thus, rituals were instrumental for the gratification of the materialistic needs of the people.
• Hence, respect for Brahmins was neither because of their command of scriptural knowledge nor because of their divine origin (Purushasukta).
• This implies that the existence of structured inequality between Brahmins and the rest is driven by material conditions. Therefore, Dange considers Brahmins as a class and not as a caste . From Vedic to contemporary times, Indian society has passed through various forms of class divisions. In contemporary India, he felt that workers and labourers should come together to initiate the revolutions of the proletariat.

D.D. Kosambi was a historian. He collected data from historical texts and applied contemporary context to these sources.

• In Rigveda, there is a mention of dasyus or slaves.
• These slaves were not born as slaves and were most likely a different ethnic group living in the subcontinent.
• Due to the loss of sovereignty to the Aryans, they were pushed out of the Varna system and forced to take up menial occupations.
• Vedic society was not egalitarian but exploitative, hierarchy-based, and had a class character. Therefore, the history of Indian society is a history of class formation, consolidation, and struggle for liberation from class-based inequality. (Adi-Dravida/dharma/Hindu movements based on this idea)DALITS in Punjab call themselves Dravidians in the North. Raavan Sena and names like Danav and Lankesh!

R.K. Mukherjee indicated that:

• Hindu cultural values were created by the Brahmins and transmitted by them as teachers and preachers.
• It was forced into the subconscious of the masses, who now conform to the Hindu values not because they need them but rather because without them the existence of society will be at stake.
• The unity of Indian society is a product of brahminical class consciousness that gave Kshatriyas the right to rule, Vaishyas the right to make wealth, and Shudras to gratify others. Structural inequality in India is a product of coercive values created and transmitted by Brahmins who wanted to institutionalise and consolidate their domination throughout the history of Indian society.

Desai considers that the Marxist approach offers an alternative to the Indological approach to understanding Indian society. He says that Marxist understanding of India is an attempt to develop a Historical Materialist interpretation of the history of India. He says that Indian history (Marxist perspective) can be divided into three stages:

• Pre-colonial.
• Post-colonial.

Pre-colonial Mode of production - It is defined by Marx as the Asiatic mode of production .

It is characterised by:

• communal ownership of property,
• presence of political inequality,
• absence of markets,
• subsistence production, and
• mutual exchange of service and skills (jajmani relations).

Thus, elements of equality are absent in the Asiatic MoP. A long list of Indian rulers and conquerors came and went and had little impact on the village life in India. The only thing that changed for the village was the person who collected taxes. Till the Mughals, no direct attempt had been made to change this setup. Indian feudal structure can be called corporate feudalism as against the manorial feudalism of Europe. Colonial MoP(British slowly introduced new FoP, changed old RoP, and thereby transformed the Indian superstructure leading to the birth of a new MC which led the nationalist movement) Seen as beginning with the advent of European traders in India. Initially, they carried goods manufactured in industries back home to be sold in the Indian market. Desai says that they enjoyed two major advantages:

• Industrial technology was used for cheaper mass production of goods,
• The industry is used for the production of advanced warheads.

Initially, these traders only catered to the dominant classes (replacing the artisans in the towns) but slowly proliferated their trade to include the masses (therefore also affecting the rural artisans and the autarchy of the villages). With cheap goods flooding the market, traditional artisans, cottage industries, and domestic manufacturing units soon collapsed. With the extra workforce flooding agriculture, land became a burdened resource. With the absence of improvement in farm technology combined with natural calamities, agricultural production fell and created conditions of mass poverty in India. After the British seized state power through techniques such as divide and rule and subsidiary alliance, they introduced agrarian, industrial, and revenue policies in order to maximize profit.

• Change in economic structures (landholding patterns). The land became individually owned, sellable, mortgageable, and thus, alienable. Earlier it used to be communally owned and thus not alienable.
• Change in forms of production. This system also increased the tax liability of the peasants. Thus, the failure of agriculture to raise production and increased tax liability led to pauperisation. Earlier the production had been of subsistence type with tax being paid as a % of produce during that year. Shift to fixed monetary tax irrespective of production changed the nature of agriculture from subsistence to commercial.
• Change in social structures. Colonial rulers introduced intermediaries between them and the peasants in the form of the zamindars. These zamindars further appointed sub-zamindars and sub-sub-zamindars to collect revenue. Dependents on land increased while production remained the same. Zamindars were also created as a class of land owners dependent on the British for their power. Earlier the taxmen collected tax from village heads.
• Change in trade structures. Further trade acts and policies of the British created a situation whereby even everyday use items such as sugar and salt were imported from Britain. The autonomy of the villages was completely broken down and traders in towns also lost out due to the import push. According to A R Desai, the freedom struggle was a product of the proletariat who reacted to the coercive policies of the state and colonial government. With time a new middle class emerged which was western educated and held western occupations and values. This middle class was initially favoured by the British to act as interlocutors between them and the illiterate masses, but over time the interlocutors thought of applying western ideals to themselves too. They wanted liberty, equality, and freedom from colonial rule to establish a nationalist government.

He admits the role of the press and education in the development of Indian nationalism and also points to the religious reform movements as an expression of national democratic awakening. Ultimately, nationalism was expressed in the phase of mass struggle with a middle-class leadership and they received ardent support from the hungry and exploited masses. For Desai, the economic history of India is a shift from feudalism to exploitative capitalism. Post-Colonial MoPCharacterised by the plans of the newly independent bourgeois government to follow a socialist development policy. The initial discourse was dominated by land reforms, education for all, equal pay for equal work, the factories act, community development program, poverty alleviation measures, etc. Desai noted that by 1976, 80% of agricultural land was owned by 10% of the people. The benefits of GR and agricultural subsidies had been cornered by the rich farmers, and more than 40% of Indian people were BPL. He concludes that in independent India, capitalist development is gathering a greater momentum than socialist development. He starkly remarks that external colonialism has been replaced by internal colonialism. New farm laws which enable greater capitalist intervention in agriculture show the significance of Marxist theory to understand changing modes of production in India.

• Desai and Marxism offered a new perspective on Indian sociology, so far dominated by structural functionalism.
• Andre Beteille says that Marxists are too committed to economic determinism and are so unable to realise that reality is vast, unorganised, dichotomous, and chaotic.
• SC Dube: Marxists drag facts to fit a theory rather than make a theory to explain facts.
• TK Oommen says that Indian sociology has been plagued by deterministic approaches (cultural determinism of Indology and economic determinism of Marxism) and needs to be liberated from this bondage.
• Despite the regular critiques of Marxist sociology, it remains a dynamic paradigm to understand the various dialectical relationships present in Indian society to explain the change.

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Indian Society - Syllabus, Strategy Overview [UPSC Exam]

Indian Society is one of the important subjects in the UPSC syllabus. The subject finds its mention in Prelims, Mains and Optional papers of the IAS Exam . This article will help you get an overview of the Indian Society syllabus, the right strategy to prepare for it and also relevant notes’ articles for UPSC preparation.

Indian Society Syllabus – What is asked in the IAS paper?

Indian Society & UPSC Prelims

In prelims examination, candidates know that UPSC has not mentioned an elaborative syllabus but has mentioned major topics from which questions are asked. The table below mentions all those topics that are related to the Indian Society subject so that candidates know which segment to focus on for its UPSC Syllabus completion. Though the topics that can be related to Indian Society are also relevant to Economy & Social Development, hence, aspirants should take a wider view while covering these.

#Indian Society & UPSC Mains

After prelims, there are nine subjective papers in UPSC Mains . Indian Society is covered under its syllabus of General Studies Paper 1 and certain facets are also covered in Mains General Studies Paper 2. The table below will mention what topics related to Indian Society are mentioned by the commission in GS 1 and 2 syllabi:

Indian Society & UPSC Optionals

Candidates should know that there is no such subject called ‘Indian Society,’ but there is a Sociology subject that covers important fragments of Indian Society. Under paper-II of the Sociology subject, topics related to structure and changes of Indian Society are mentioned. You can get the full Sociology Optional Syllabus from the linked article. Some of the Indian Society topics that are covered in UPSC Sociology optional syllabus are mentioned in the table below:

Indian Society Questions Trend Analysis – Prelims & Mains

In Prelims, questions are majorly asked from social sector schemes, or welfare schemes that the central government or state government flag off for the attainment of development goals.

Check the kind of questions asked in UPSC Prelims on topics related to Indian Society:

Points to note for Indian Society Questions asked in UPSC Prelims:

Referring to the above-mentioned questions that have been asked in Prelims 2019, 2018, 2017 respectively, candidates can take note of the points mentioned below:

• Questions are majorly targeted at the social sector schemes that are for the welfare of people.
• Questions on basic concepts like social capital, equality in the society have also found a place in UPSC Prelims.
• Unlike in the Mains exam where questions on Indian Society are general in nature, in Prelims Indian Society questions will need good factual understanding so as to opt for the correct option while answering.

Indian Society Questions – UPSC Mains

The graph below explains the trend in a number of questions that are asked from the Indian Society topic in UPSC Mains:

As the graph suggests, UPSC Mains GS 1 has seen an increase in questions related to Indian Society or Social Issues. For reference and practice of the Indian Society questions related to different topics, one can get all the previous years’ Indian Society Questions of UPSC Mains GS 1 , in the linked article.

For complete preparation of UPSC Mains GS 1, candidates can refer to the links below:

How to Prepare Indian Society Topic for UPSC?

Prelims Strategy:

The IAS candidates can take help of the points mentioned below before they start their preparation of GS 1 topic – Indian Society:

• What is the topic?
• Why is it important?
• Has the topic been in the news?
• Cramming the figures for the topics related to social issues is not very important from the exam perspective, rather aspirants should try to focus on the root causes of social issues. For issues like women’s safety, social empowerment, poverty, urbanization, health; an aspirant should know the background of such topics with the current initiatives taken up by the government (central or state) for the improvement of the same.

Mains Strategy:

While practicing Mains answer writing, aspirants should know what will make it easier for them when they write answers on questions related to Indian Society and its issues:

• Focus on the crux of social issues like casteism, communalism, poverty, gender inequality, hunger issues and other similar Indian Society issues. An aspirant should be aligned with the development initiatives relating to these issues.
• A general view on social issues is important rather than an extreme view. An aspirant should try to find answers to these issues by analysing the problems recurring in the Indian Society.
• A holistic view of the social issue is desired in the UPSC exam by an aspirant. A candidate who knows what, where, why, which, who and how of a social issue, becomes a desirable candidate.
• An aspirant should always keep in mind that his/her aim will be to crack the exam and not change the world that day; hence he/she should shy away from writing unfeasible and unrealistic solutions to the social issues in the Indian society.
• A desirable candidate is who knows how to connect culture, society, polity, geography, and economics with the issues of the Indian Society. Hence, one should always try to read from different perspectives and try to form a balanced opinion.

To get the best books for the Indian Society , you can check the linked article. Here, you will get a list of books that are useful for both prelims and mains.

UPSC Questions related to Indian Society

What should one read for indian society in upsc.

NCERT Class 11 – Understanding Society.

NCERT Class 12 – Indian Society.

NCERT Class 12 – Social Change & Development in India.

What is the social problems in India?

What is indian society and its types.

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Indian Society – Syllabus for UPSC

The Indian Society is a multifaceted entity, intricately woven with diversity, tradition, and modernity. The UPSC syllabus comprehensively addresses the various dimensions of Indian society, fostering an understanding of its historical, social, and cultural fabric. The examination delves into the dynamics of caste, class, and gender, examining how these factors shape social structures and influence individual lives. Moreover, the syllabus explores the intricate relationship between society and governance, scrutinizing the role of various institutions and their impact on socio-economic development. Issues related to communalism, regionalism, and social justice are pivotal components, reflecting the need for a nuanced understanding of India’s complex societal landscape. The aspirants are expected to analyze contemporary challenges, such as poverty, inequality, and social unrest, and propose informed solutions. Furthermore, the syllabus encourages an exploration of India’s cultural diversity, emphasizing the coexistence of myriad traditions within the overarching national identity. Overall, the study of Indian society in the UPSC syllabus is a crucial endeavor, as it equips aspirants with the insights needed to comprehend the intricate social dynamics of the nation and contribute meaningfully to its governance and development.

Table of Contents

Indian Society Syllabus

The syllabus for the Indian Society section in the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) Civil Services Examination is broad and encompasses various aspects of society, culture, and social issues in India. Here is a detailed outline of the syllabus:

1. Historical Evolution of Indian Society:

• Ancient societies: Vedic period, varna system, and tribal societies.
• Medieval societies: Bhakti and Sufi movements, and the Mughal era.
• Modern societies: Colonialism, social reform movements, and the impact of western education.

2. Salient Features of Indian Society:

• Diversity in India: Caste, religion, language, and regional variations.
• Unity in diversity: Constitutional provisions, cultural heritage, and national integration.

3. Social Structure in India:

• Varna and caste system: Changing dynamics and contemporary issues.
• Tribal communities: Issues of identity, displacement, and development.

4. Rural and Urban Society:

• Changes in rural society: Agrarian relations, land reforms, and rural transformation.
• Urbanization: Problems, migration, and challenges in urban areas.

5. Gender Issues:

• Women’s movement: Historical perspective, key issues, and challenges.
• Gender discrimination, patriarchy, and efforts for gender equality.

6. Social Justice:

• Issues of scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and other backward classes.
• Reservation policies and their impact.

7. Social Movements:

• Peasant movements, workers’ movements, and environmental movements.
• Civil rights movements, women’s movements, and human rights movements.

8. Indian Society and Diversity of Cultures:

• Languages, customs, traditions, and festivals.
• Impact of globalization on Indian society.

9. Role of Women and Women’s Organization:

• Women’s organizations and their contributions.
• Gender roles, empowerment, and challenges faced by women.

10. Population and Associated Issues:

• Population growth, family planning, and demographic transition.
• Health and education-related challenges.

11. Poverty and Developmental Issues:

• Poverty alleviation programs and their effectiveness.
• Developmental issues in various sectors: education, health, and employment.

12. Globalization and its Impact on Indian Society:

• Economic, social, and cultural dimensions of globalization.
• Challenges and opportunities posed by globalization.

13. Social Issues and Social Welfare:

• Social issues like poverty, unemployment, and homelessness.
• Government policies and schemes for social welfare.

14. Social Movements in Modern India:

• Overview of major social movements in modern Indian history.
• Significance and outcomes of these movements.

15. Education and Educational Institutions:

• Educational system in India: Issues, challenges, and reforms.
• Role of education in social change.

Note : This syllabus is a comprehensive guide for candidates preparing for the Indian Society section of the UPSC Civil Services Examination. It is crucial to stay updated with current events and developments in Indian society for a well-rounded preparation. Additionally, candidates should refer to current affairs, government reports, and other relevant sources for the most recent information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: what is the significance of studying indian society in the upsc exam.

A: The study of Indian Society is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it helps them understand the social fabric, diversity, and dynamics of the country. It provides insights into various social issues, cultural nuances, and challenges faced by different sections of society, which is essential for effective governance and policy formulation.

Q: What are the key topics under the Indian Society syllabus for UPSC?

A: The Indian Society syllabus covers a wide range of topics, including social structure, diversity, urbanization, globalization, poverty, social empowerment, communalism, regionalism, and the impact of social movements. It also focuses on issues related to vulnerable sections like women, children, and minorities. A detailed understanding of these topics is essential for aspirants to analyze and address societal challenges.

Q: How does the UPSC syllabus for Indian Society integrate with other subjects in the examination?

A: The Indian Society syllabus is interdisciplinary, connecting with subjects like History, Geography, Economics, and Governance. For example, it helps in understanding historical social changes, the impact of geography on society, economic disparities, and the role of governance in addressing social issues. A holistic approach to the syllabus enhances the aspirants’ ability to correlate information across various subjects.

Q: Can you provide examples of contemporary issues covered in the Indian Society syllabus for UPSC?

A: Yes, contemporary issues such as gender inequality, caste-based discrimination, poverty, healthcare challenges, educational disparities, and environmental concerns are integral to the Indian Society syllabus. Aspirants need to stay updated on these issues and develop a critical understanding of their socio-economic and political implications for effective answer writing in the exam.

Q: How can aspirants prepare effectively for the Indian Society section in the UPSC exam?

A: To prepare for the Indian Society section, aspirants should start by thoroughly reading the syllabus. They should focus on NCERT books on Sociology and other relevant reference materials. Regularly following current affairs, especially issues related to society, is crucial. Practicing answer writing and incorporating real-life examples in responses will enhance the quality of their answers. Additionally, aspirants should engage in discussions and debates to develop a comprehensive understanding of different perspectives on social issues.

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Unity in Diversity: The Essence of India’s Composite Culture | Essay Writing for UPSC by Vikash Ranjan Sir | Triumph ias

Table of Contents

India’s Mosaic: A Celebration of Unity in Diversity

(relevant for essay writing for upsc civil services examination).

India’s vibrant landscape is dotted with myriad cultures, traditions, and histories. Dive into the mesmerizing mosaic of India’s composite culture and discover how it epitomizes unity in diversity.

The Threads of Time

From the ancient Indus Valley Civilization to modern-day India, the country has imbibed, evolved, and celebrated a myriad of influences, giving birth to its unique identity.

A Symphony of Cultures

Whether it’s the resonating chants from temples, the melodic calls for prayer from mosques, or the harmonious carols from churches, India embraces them all with open arms. Languages, festivals, art – every facet of Indian life reflects its harmonious blend.

Conclusion: A Lesson for the World

In times of global divisiveness, India’s composite culture stands tall as a testament to the strength and beauty of unity in diversity.

To master these intricacies and fare well in the Sociology Optional Syllabus , aspiring sociologists might benefit from guidance by the Best Sociology Optional Teacher and participation in the Best Sociology Optional Coaching . These avenues provide comprehensive assistance, ensuring a solid understanding of sociology’s diverse methodologies and techniques

India, Composite Culture, Unity in Diversity, Religions, Languages, Festivals, Art, Architecture, Historical Evolution.

Sociology Optional Syllabus Course Commencement Information

• Enrolment is limited to a maximum of 250 Seats.
• Course Timings: Evening Batch
• Course Duration: 4.5 Months
• Class Schedule: Monday to Saturday
• Batch Starts from: Admission open for online batch

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We would like to hear from you. Please send us a message by filling out the form below and we will get back with you shortly.

Instructional Format:

• Each class session is scheduled for a duration of two hours.
• At the conclusion of each lecture, an assignment will be distributed by Vikash Ranjan Sir for Paper-I & Paper-II coverage.

Study Material:

• A set of printed booklets will be provided for each topic. These materials are succinct, thoroughly updated, and tailored for examination preparation.
• A compilation of previous years’ question papers (spanning the last 27 years) will be supplied for answer writing practice.
• Access to PDF versions of toppers’ answer booklets will be available on our website.
• Post-course, you will receive two practice workbooks containing a total of 10 sets of mock test papers based on the UPSC format for self-assessment.

Additional Provisions:

• In the event of missed classes, video lectures will be temporarily available on the online portal for reference.
• Daily one-on-one doubt resolution sessions with Vikash Ranjan Sir will be organized post-class.

Syllabus of Sociology Optional

FUNDAMENTALS OF SOCIOLOGY

• Modernity and social changes in Europe and emergence of sociology.
• Scope of the subject and comparison with other social sciences.
• Sociology and common sense.
• Science, scientific method and critique.
• Major theoretical strands of research methodology.
• Positivism and its critique.
• Fact value and objectivity.
• Non- positivist methodologies.
• Qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Techniques of data collection.
• Variables, sampling, hypothesis, reliability and validity.
• Karl Marx- Historical materialism, mode of production, alienation, class struggle.
• Emile Durkheim- Division of labour, social fact, suicide, religion and society.
• Max Weber- Social action, ideal types, authority, bureaucracy, protestant ethic and the spirit of capitalism.
• Talcott Parsons- Social system, pattern variables.
• Robert K. Merton- Latent and manifest functions, conformity and deviance, reference groups.
• Mead – Self and identity.
• Concepts- equality, inequality, hierarchy, exclusion, poverty and deprivation.
• Theories of social stratification- Structural functionalist theory, Marxist theory, Weberian theory.
• Dimensions – Social stratification of class, status groups, gender, ethnicity and race.
• Social mobility- open and closed systems, types of mobility, sources and causes of mobility.
• Social organization of work in different types of society- slave society, feudal society, industrial /capitalist society
• Formal and informal organization of work.
• Labour and society.
• Sociological theories of power.
• Power elite, bureaucracy, pressure groups, and political parties.
• Nation, state, citizenship, democracy, civil society, ideology.
• Protest, agitation, social movements, collective action, revolution.
• Sociological theories of religion.
• Types of religious practices: animism, monism, pluralism, sects, cults.
• Religion in modern society: religion and science, secularization, religious revivalism, fundamentalism.
• Family, household, marriage.
• Types and forms of family.
• Lineage and descent.
• Patriarchy and sexual division of labour.
• Contemporary trends.
• Sociological theories of social change.
• Development and dependency.
• Agents of social change.
• Education and social change.
• Science, technology and social change.

INDIAN SOCIETY: STRUCTURE AND CHANGE

Introducing indian society.

• Indology (GS. Ghurye).
• Structural functionalism (M N Srinivas).
• Marxist sociology (A R Desai).
• Social background of Indian nationalism.
• Modernization of Indian tradition.
• Protests and movements during the colonial period.
• Social reforms.

SOCIAL STRUCTURE

• The idea of Indian village and village studies.
• Agrarian social structure – evolution of land tenure system, land reforms.
• Perspectives on the study of caste systems: GS Ghurye, M N Srinivas, Louis Dumont, Andre Beteille.
• Features of caste system.
• Untouchability – forms and perspectives.
• Definitional problems.
• Geographical spread.
• Colonial policies and tribes.
• Issues of integration and autonomy.
• Social Classes in India:
• Agrarian class structure.
• Industrial class structure.
• Middle classes in India.
• Lineage and descent in India.
• Types of kinship systems.
• Family and marriage in India.
• Household dimensions of the family.
• Patriarchy, entitlements and sexual division of labour
• Religious communities in India.
• Problems of religious minorities.

SOCIAL CHANGES IN INDIA

• Idea of development planning and mixed economy
• Constitution, law and social change.
• Programmes of rural development, Community Development Programme, cooperatives,poverty alleviation schemes
• Green revolution and social change.
• Changing modes of production in Indian agriculture.
• Problems of rural labour, bondage, migration.

3. Industrialization and Urbanisation in India:

• Evolution of modern industry in India.
• Growth of urban settlements in India.
• Working class: structure, growth, class mobilization.
• Informal sector, child labour
• Slums and deprivation in urban areas.

4. Politics and Society:

• Nation, democracy and citizenship.
• Political parties, pressure groups , social and political elite
• Regionalism and decentralization of power.
• Secularization

5. Social Movements in Modern India:

• Peasants and farmers movements.
• Women’s movement.
• Backward classes & Dalit movement.
• Environmental movements.
• Ethnicity and Identity movements.

6. Population Dynamics:

• Population size, growth, composition and distribution
• Components of population growth: birth, death, migration.
• Population policy and family planning.
• Emerging issues: ageing, sex ratios, child and infant mortality, reproductive health.

7. Challenges of Social Transformation:

• Crisis of development: displacement, environmental problems and sustainability
• Poverty, deprivation and inequalities.
• Violence against women.
• Caste conflicts.
• Ethnic conflicts, communalism, religious revivalism.
• Illiteracy and disparities in education.

Mr. Vikash Ranjan, arguably the Best Sociology Optional Teacher , has emerged as a versatile genius in teaching and writing books on Sociology & General Studies. His approach to the Sociology Optional Syllabus / Sociology Syllabus is remarkable, and his Sociological Themes and Perspectives are excellent. His teaching aptitude is Simple, Easy and Exam Focused. He is often chosen as the Best Sociology Teacher for Sociology Optional UPSC aspirants.

About Triumph IAS

Innovating Knowledge, Inspiring Success We, at Triumph IAS , pride ourselves on being the best sociology optional coaching platform. We believe that each Individual Aspirant is unique and requires Individual Guidance and Care, hence the need for the Best Sociology Teacher . We prepare students keeping in mind his or her strength and weakness, paying particular attention to the Sociology Optional Syllabus / Sociology Syllabus , which forms a significant part of our Sociology Foundation Course .

Course Features

Every day, the Best Sociology Optional Teacher spends 2 hours with the students, covering each aspect of the Sociology Optional Syllabus / Sociology Syllabus and the Sociology Course . Students are given assignments related to the Topic based on Previous Year Question to ensure they’re ready for the Sociology Optional UPSC examination.

Regular one-on-one interaction & individual counseling for stress management and refinement of strategy for Exam by Vikash Ranjan Sir , the Best Sociology Teacher , is part of the package. We specialize in sociology optional coaching and are hence fully equipped to guide you to your dream space in the civil service final list.

Specialist Guidance of Vikash Ranjan Sir

The Best Sociology Teacher helps students to get a complete conceptual understanding of each and every topic of the Sociology Optional Syllabus / Sociology Syllabus , enabling them to attempt any of the questions, be direct or applied, ensuring 300+ Marks in Sociology Optional .

Classrooms Interaction & Participatory Discussion

The Best Sociology Teacher, Vikash Sir , ensures that there’s explanation & DISCUSSION on every topic of the Sociology Optional Syllabus / Sociology Syllabus in the class. The emphasis is not just on teaching but also on understanding, which is why we are known as the Best Sociology Optional Coaching institution.

Preparatory-Study Support

Online Support System (Oss)

Get access to an online forum for value addition study material, journals, and articles relevant to Sociology on www.triumphias.com . Ask preparation related queries directly to the Best Sociology Teacher , Vikash Sir, via mail or WhatsApp.

Strategic Classroom Preparation

Comprehensive Study Material

We provide printed booklets of concise, well-researched, exam-ready study material for every unit of the Sociology Optional Syllabus / Sociology Syllabus , making us the Best Sociology Optional Coaching platform.

Why Vikash Ranjan’s Classes for Sociology?

Proper guidance and assistance are required to learn the skill of interlinking current happenings with the conventional topics. VIKASH RANJAN SIR at TRIUMPH IAS guides students according to the Recent Trends of UPSC, making him the Best Sociology Teacher for Sociology Optional UPSC.

At Triumph IAS, the Best Sociology Optional Coaching platform, we not only provide the best study material and applied classes for Sociology for IAS but also conduct regular assignments and class tests to assess candidates’ writing skills and understanding of the subject.

Choose T he Best Sociology Optional Teacher for IAS Preparation?

At the beginning of the journey for Civil Services Examination preparation, many students face a pivotal decision – selecting their optional subject. Questions such as “ which optional subject is the best? ” and “ which optional subject is the most scoring? ” frequently come to mind. Choosing the right optional subject, like choosing the best sociology optional teacher , is a subjective yet vital step that requires a thoughtful decision based on facts. A misstep in this crucial decision can indeed prove disastrous.

Ever since the exam pattern was revamped in 2013, the UPSC has eliminated the need for a second optional subject. Now, candidates have to choose only one optional subject for the UPSC Mains , which has two papers of 250 marks each. One of the compelling choices for many has been the sociology optional. However, it’s strongly advised to decide on your optional subject for mains well ahead of time to get sufficient time to complete the syllabus. After all, most students score similarly in General Studies Papers; it’s the score in the optional subject & essay that contributes significantly to the final selection.

“ A sound strategy does not rely solely on the popular Opinion of toppers or famous YouTubers cum teachers. ”

It requires understanding one’s ability, interest, and the relevance of the subject, not just for the exam but also for life in general. Hence, when selecting the best sociology teacher, one must consider the usefulness of sociology optional coaching in General Studies, Essay, and Personality Test.

The choice of the optional subject should be based on objective criteria, such as the nature, scope, and size of the syllabus, uniformity and stability in the question pattern, relevance of the syllabic content in daily life in society, and the availability of study material and guidance. For example, choosing the best sociology optional coaching can ensure access to top-quality study materials and experienced teachers. Always remember, the approach of the UPSC optional subject differs from your academic studies of subjects. Therefore, before settling for sociology optional , you need to analyze the syllabus, previous years’ pattern, subject requirements (be it ideal, visionary, numerical, conceptual theoretical), and your comfort level with the subject.

This decision marks a critical point in your UPSC – CSE journey , potentially determining your success in a career in IAS/Civil Services. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose wisely, whether it’s the optional subject or the best sociology optional teacher . Always base your decision on accurate facts, and never let your emotional biases guide your choices. After all, the search for the best sociology optional coaching is about finding the perfect fit for your unique academic needs and aspirations.

To master these intricacies and fare well in the Sociology Optional Syllabus , aspiring sociologists might benefit from guidance by the Best Sociology Optional Teacher and participation in the Best Sociology Optional Coaching . These avenues provide comprehensive assistance, ensuring a solid understanding of sociology’s diverse methodologies and techniques. Sociology, Social theory, Best Sociology Optional Teacher, Best Sociology Optional Coaching, Sociology Optional Syllabus. Best Sociology Optional Teacher, Sociology Syllabus, Sociology Optional, Sociology Optional Coaching, Best Sociology Optional Coaching, Best Sociology Teacher, Sociology Course, Sociology Teacher, Sociology Foundation, Sociology Foundation Course, Sociology Optional UPSC, Sociology for IAS,

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Effects of Globalization on Indian Society

Last updated on April 9, 2022 by ClearIAS Team

Globalization has virtually diminished the distances and connected the whole world. Read here to know the effect of globalization on Indian society.

Globalization is a term used to describe how trade and technology have made the world a more connected and interdependent place. Globalization also captures in its scope the economic and social changes that have come about as a result.

In today’s world, consumers have a wide choice of goods and services before them. The latest models of digital cameras, mobile phones, and televisions made by the leading manufacturers of the world are within the reach. Every season, new models of automobiles can be seen on Indian roads. Gone are the days when Ambassador and Fiat were the only cars on Indian roads.

Today, Indians are buying cars produced by nearly all the top companies in the world. A similar explosion of brands can be seen for many other goods: from shirts to televisions to processed fruit juices. Such a wide-ranging choice of goods in our markets is a relatively recent phenomenon.

One wouldn’t have found such a wide variety of goods in Indian markets two decades back. In a matter of years, our markets have been transformed! How do we understand these rapid transformations? What are the factors that brought about these changes? And, how did these changes affect the lives of the people? The answer to all these questions starts with ‘globalization’.

Table of Contents

Effect of globalization on Indian society

Globalization has several aspects and can be political, cultural, social, and economic, out of which financial integration is the most common aspect. India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and is predicted to reach the top three in the next decade.

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India’s massive economic growth is largely due to globalization which was a transformational change that didn’t occur until the 1990s. Since then, the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) has grown at an exponential rate.

The many effects of globalization on Indian society and multiple aspects of it have been discussed here.

Impact of globalization on the Indian economy

Overall, globalization has improved various aspects of India, like:

• International trade relations
• Technology and communication
• Corporate world
• Social and cultural expansion

The reduction of export subsidies and import barriers enabled free trade that made the Indian market attractive to the international community. The untapped potential of the nascent Indian market was opened to the global market and the significant changes were made to its industrial, financial, and agricultural sectors:

Industrial   sector: It saw a massive influx of both foreign capital investments ’ India became a favorite offshore market for pharmaceutical manufacturing, chemical, and petroleum industries. This brought advanced technologies and processes that helped in the modernization of the Indian industrial sector.

Financial sector: Prior to globalization and privatization, India’s financial sector had been mismanaged by a combination of corrupt and inept government officials. The privatization of the financial space created a much more dynamic financial services sector.

Agricultural sector: India still has a largely agrarian society , with a significant majority of the country’s population depending on this sector either directly or indirectly for their livelihood. The new technological capabilities of farmers have increased helping drive global exports of Indian products such as tea, coffee, and sugar.

The betterment of these sectors has brought about an increase in national income, employment, exports, and GDP growth.

Advantages of globalization for India

• The increasing globalization of India has access to markets of the country to foreign companies seeking to invest and operate within the massive Indian market.
• Increase in employment opportunities.
• Initially, globalization gave foreigners access to an inexpensive, robust labor force. But as the country has progressed, the labor force has grown more skilled and educated over time. Now India has the largest diaspora living abroad.
• For foreign investors considering the economy as a whole, India offers a well-diversified export basket. This has been highlighted in the Economic Survey of India as well.

The cultural impact of globalization on Indian society

The process of globalization increased access to television and other entertainment sources over the years. Even in the rural areas satellite television has an established market. In the cities, Internet facility is everywhere and it is being extended to rural areas also through schemes like Smart Cities Mission .

There is an increase in the global food chain and restaurants in the urban areas of India. Multiple movie halls, big shopping malls, and high-rise residential are seen in every city.

The entertainment sector in India has now obtained a global market. After economic liberalization, Bollywood expanded its area and showed a major presence on the global scale. Bollywood movies are quite famous in Middle Eastern and many African countries as well.

Western styles began to be incorporated into Bollywood films to expand the outreach.

As these new cultural ideologies began to permeate the Indian population, the Indian urban population was pushed to re-evaluate their traditional Indian cultural ideology.

Bollywood movies are also distributed and accepted at the international level. Big international companies like Walt Disney, 20th Century Fox, and Columbia Pictures are investing in this sector.

Similarly, famous International brands such as Armani, Gucci, Nike, and Omega are also making investments in the Indian market with the changing of fashion statement of Indians.

Women are getting the equal opportunities they very well deserve now in more numbers due to the globalization of the market. Their empowerment has given considerable opportunities and possibilities for improving employment conditions through global solidarity and coordination. It is found that the growth of computers and other technologies enabled women with better waged, flex timings, and capacity to negotiate their role and status in-home and at the corporate level.

Effects of Globalization on Indian Education:

There is a profound effect observed in the educational sector due to globalization such as the literacy rate becoming high.

Foreign Universities are collaborating with different Indian Universities now, expanding the reach for Indian students.

The Indian educational system embraced globalization through Information technology and it offers opportunities to evolve new paradigms shifts in developmental education.

The shift from largely uneducated to an industrial society to an information society has gradually taken shape.

Globalization promotes new tools and techniques such as E-learning, Flexible learning, Distance Education Programs, and Overseas training.

Many government schemes like the ‘ New Education Policy ’ are pushing for a more global education system to make Indian students from every walk of life at par with the global community.

Challenges of globalization in Indian society

• Economically, for a large market like India is harder to maintain a free, convertible, and open access enabled transnational market.
• Globalization also means growing interdependence in other nations- this can issues like misdistribution of resources. The parity between underdeveloped, developing, and developed remains status quo in many cases.
• The universalization of information technology has boons but also banes, in terms of cybercrimes and other darknet activities . The increase in the number of cyberattacks in India is proof of this.
• Globalization does have a great effect on the ecologies and environments of nations that need safeguards that lessen the negative effects rather than exploiting them without regard to such concerns.
• The negative effects of globalization on the Indian Industry are that with the coming of technology the number of labor required is decreased and this resulted in increasing unemployment, especially in the arena of the pharmaceutical, chemical, manufacturing, and cement industries.
• There are a few challenges for companies due to globalization such as Migration, relocation, labor shortages, competition, and changes in skills and technology.

The effects of globalization on Indian society are manifold and have been discussed in detail. The process of globalization has changed the industrial pattern and social life of people. This has had an immense impact on Indian trade, finance, and cultural system.

The globalization of the economic, social, and cultural structures happened in simultaneously. Previously, the pace of the process was slow but now the change is happening in every arena at lightning-fast speed with the use of information technology.

Globalization has resulted in an increase in the production of a range of goods and services. MNCs have established manufacturing plants all over the world. It has positive effects on India and the administration is trying its best to overcome many obstacles and adopt global policies to expand business an international scale.

India is surely gaining international recognition which leads to the strengthening of economic and political areas.

Truly, globalization has made the world a small place, a whole lot of different people interconnected in diverse ways.

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Total Questions : 115

Q.  The concept of secularism in India is flawed as it seeks to negate the importance of our cultural and religious heritage. Critically examine (250 words)

Q. Discuss the impact of globalization on traditional Indian values and social institutions. (150 words)

Q. Analyze the impact of consumerism on Indian society and culture. How has it reshaped consumption patterns, lifestyles, and social aspirations? (150 words)

Q. Evaluate the impact of internal migration on social structures and urban development in India's megacities. (250 words)

Q . Discuss the social and legal challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and suggest measures for promoting their rights and inclusion. (250 words)

Q. "The caste system is adopting new identities and associational forms; therefore, it cannot be eradicated in India." Discuss. (250 words)

Q . Highlight the impact of rural-urban migration on Indian society. Also, state the challenges faced by migrants in urban areas. (250 words)

Q. Critically examine the social and economic barriers faced by women entrepreneurs in India. Suggest strategies to empower women to start and grow their businesses.

Q . Discuss the concept of Dependency Ratio with respect to India's aging population. Identify the key challenges faced by the elderly in India and suggest actionable steps to address their concerns. (250 words)

Q. Analyze the challenges posed by regionalism to national integration and governance, highlighting its implications on political stability and socio-economic development. (250 words)

Q.  Define demographic transition and explain the concept of demographic dividend.Discuss the significance of India's demographic transition in the context of its potential economic growth and global competitiveness. (250 words)

Q. How does climate change impact the lives of women? Discuss the role of gender-sensitive policies in addressing climate change mitigation and adaptation. (250 words)

Q. Discuss the social repercussions of globalization on traditional cultures, identities, and social structures, emphasizing both positive transformations and challenges. (250 words)

Q. Analyze the importance and potential challenges associated with implementing the proposed Women’s Urban Employment Guarantee Act in India. Recommend strategies for realizing substantial economic empowerment for women across the nation. (250 words)

Q .Evaluate the present condition of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) in India. What reforms would you suggest to ensure a prosperous future for children in the country? (250 words)

Q . Examine to what extent do innate differences contribute to disparities in education, income, and social status? (150 Words)

Q. How do awards like Padma awards and Bharat Ratna extend beyond individual recognition to reflect the recipients' impact on various aspects of Indian society? (250 Words)

Q. Critically analyze the concept of social empowerment, discussing its diverse dimensions and their significance in achieving inclusive development in India. (150 Words)

Q . Discuss the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity and communalism. (Answer in 250 words, UPSC Mains 2023)

Q. Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static? (Answer in 250 words, UPSC Mains 2023)

Q. Does urbanization lead to more segregation and/or marginalization of the poor in Indian metropolises? (Answer in 250 words, UPSC Mains 2023)

Q. What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the features are still prevailing in Indian society? (Answer in 250 words, UPSC Mains 2023)

Q. Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the socialization of children. (Answer in 150 words, UPSC Mains 2023)

Q. Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society. (Answer in 150 words, UPSC Mains 2023)

Q. Do you think marriage as a sacrament is loosing its value in Modern India? (Answer in 150 words, UPSC Mains 2023)

Q. Examine the impacts of globalization in the context of developing countries like India and discuss how India can strike a balance between economic growth and safeguarding its cultural and social identities in an increasingly globalized world. (250 words)

Q. Analyzing the challenges and implications of communalism on social cohesion and the country's overall development, discuss the role of state policies in tackling communalism. (250 words)

Q. Examine the multifaceted challenges and issues encountered by transgender individuals in India, emphasizing the role of societal stigma, discrimination, and the absence of legal recognition. (250 Words)

Q. Caste system has been a unique feature of Indian Society. How will the Caste Census in India resolve the age-old crisis of caste atrocities and marginalization ? Explain (250 Words)

Q. Discuss the impact of globalization on Indian society. How has it affected the social empowerment of women and marginalized groups? (250 words)

Indian Society (UPSC Mains) - Previous Year Questions

• Do you think marriage as a sacrament is loosing its value in Modern India?
• Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society.
• Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the socialization of children.
• Why did human development fail to keep pace with economic development in India?
• Does urbanization lead to more segregation and/or marginalization of the poor in Indian metropolises?
• Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static?
• Discuss the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity and communalism.
• Explore and evaluate the impact of 'Work From Home' on family relationships.
• How is the growth of Tier 2 cities related to the rise of a new middle class with an emphasis on the culture of consumption?
• Given the diversities among tribal communities in India, in which specific contexts should they be considered as a single category?
• Analyse the salience of 'sect' in Indian society vis-a-vis caste, region and religion.
• Are tolerance, assimilation and pluralism the key elements in the making of an Indian form of secularism? Justify your answer.
• Examine the uniqueness of tribal knowledge system when compared with mainstream knowledge and cultural systems.
• Examine the role of 'Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in India.
• What are the main socio-economic implications arising out of the development of IT industries in major cities of India?
• Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail.
• What is Cryptocurrency? How does it affect global society? Has it been affecting Indian society also?
• How does Indian society maintain continuity in traditional social values? Enumerate the changes taking place in it.
• Has caste lost its relevance in understanding the multi-cultural Indian Society? Elaborate your answer with illustrations.
• COVID-19 pandemic accelerated class inequalities and poverty in India. Comment.
• Do you agree that regionalism in India appears to be a consequence of rising cultural assertiveness? Argue.
• Is diversity and pluralism in India under threat due to globalisation? Justify your answer.
• Customs and traditions suppress reason leading to obscurantism. Do you agree?
• How have digital initiatives in India contributed to the functioning of the education system in the country? Elaborate your answer.
• What makes the Indian society unique in sustaining its culture? Discuss.
• “Empowering women is the key to control population growth.” Discuss.
• What are the challenges to our cultural practices in the name of secularism?
• Do we have cultural pockets of small India all over the nation? Elaborate with examples.
• What are the continued challenges for women in India against time and space?
• Are we losing our local identity for the global identity? Discuss.
• “Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, the caste system cannot be eradicated in India.” Comment.
• ‘Despite the implementation of various programmes for the eradication of poverty by the government in India, poverty is still existing’. Explain by giving reasons.
• How the Indian concept of secularism different from the western model of secularism? Discuss.
• ‘Women’s movement in India has not addresses the issues of women of lower social strata.’ Substantiate your view.
• ‘Globalisation is generally said to promote cultural homogenisation but due to this cultural specificities appear to be strengthened in the Indian society.’ Elucidate.
• ‘Communalism arises either due to power struggle or relative deprivation.’ Argue by giving suitable illustrations.
• In the context of the diversity of India, can it be said that the regions form cultural units rather than the States? Give reasons with examples for your view point.
• What are the two major legal initiatives by the State since Independence addressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)?
• 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.
• Distinguish between religiousness/religiosity and communalism giving one example of how the former has got transformed into the latter in independent India.
• “The growth of cities as I.T. hubs has opened up new avenues of employment, but has also created new problems”. Substantiate this statement with examples.
• Has the formation of linguistic states strengthened the cause of Indian unity?
• To what extent globalisation has influenced the core of cultural diversity in India? Explain.
• “An essential condition to eradicate poverty is to liberate the poor from the process of deprivation.” Substantiate this statement with suitable examples.
• Why are the tribals in India referred to as ‘the Scheduled Tribes’? Indicate the major provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India for their upliftment.
• With a brief background of quality of urban life in India, introduce the objectives and strategy of the ‘Smart City Programme.”
• What is the basis of regionalism? Is it that unequal distribution of benefits of development on regional basis eventually promotes regionalism? Substantiate your answer.
• Describe any four cultural elements of diversity in India and rate their relative significance in building a national identity.
• Critically examine whether growing population is the cause of poverty OR poverty is the main cause of population increase in India.
• How 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?
• Discuss the changes in the trends of labour migration within and outside India in the last four decades.
• Discuss the positive and negative effects of globalization on women in India.
• Debate the issue of whether and how contemporary movements for assertion of Dalit identity work towards annihilation of caste.
• Smart cities in India cannot sustain without smart villages. Discuss this statement in the backdrop of rural urban integration.
• How does patriarchy impact the position of a middle class working woman in India?
• Why do some of the most prosperous regions of India have an adverse sex ratio for women? Give your arguments.
• The life cycle of a joint family depends on economic factors rather than social values. Discuss.
• Discuss the various economic and socio-cultural forces that are driving increasing feminization of agriculture in India.
• How do the Indian debates on secularism differ from the debates in the West?
• Discussion the various social problems which originated out of the speedy process of urbanization in India.
• Male membership needs to be encouraged in order to make women’s organization free from gender bias. Comment.
• Critically examine the effects of globalization on the aged population in India.
• Growing feeling of regionalism is an important factor in the generation of demand for a separate state. Discuss.

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Indian Society Notes - IAS Preparation

Amruta Patil

Aug 9, 2024

IAS Exam Latest Updates

• 09 August, 2024 : UPSC Mains Schedule 2024 Out; Exam from September 20

Indian culture is multifaceted, with a mix of traditionalism and modernism. It has developed through ages, absorbed multiple cultures and traditions while maintaining its unique identity. It is very important for Civil service aspirants to comprehend the core of society's issues at all levels. An Aspirant should also be able to form your judgments on topics related to the subject.

The General Studies-I paper of the UPSC Civil services Mains Examination inscribes the Indian Society as a subject. Also, in the Preliminary examination, multiple-choice questions are also asked on these Topics. As a result, this topic must be well prepared in order to achieve a high mark in both the Prelims and Mains.

The following is a list of the broad themes addressed in this subject:

Ques : How should I tackle the "Indian Society" section of the IAS Exam?

It is one of the simpler sections in GS Paper 1 and does not call for specialised knowledge or memorising facts. However, the UPSC will thoroughly examine your knowledge of Indian society, so be sure the picture you give accurately represents Indian society.

Ques: What are the sources for Indian Society in UPSC mains?

NCERTs for class 12 on Sociology first.

• PreppIas , IGNOU Material – Development and IGNOU Material – Sociology.
• Keep up with current developments, such as calls for a separate state, racial incidents, and any caste-based demands.

Ques: Which topics should one cover in this section?

The topics one should cover are Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India. Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies.

Effects of globalization on Indian society. Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.

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UPSC SYLLABUS

Indian society (indian society (mains)), upsc syllabus.

• Indian Society
• Indian Society (Mains)
• Ancient History
• Medieval India
• Modern History
• Modern India (Mains)
• Indian Culture (Prelims)
• Indian Culture (Mains)
• Post Independence Consolidation (Mains)
• World History (Mains)
• Contemporary Issues: PIC (Mains)
• Geography (Prelims)
• Physical Geography: World & India (Mains)
• Economic & Human Geography (Mains)
• Indian Polity And Governance (Prelims)
• Features Of Indian Polity & Constitution (Mains)
• Executive, Judiciary, Legislature (Mains)
• Governance (Mains)
• Contemporary Issues: Features of Indian Polity & Constitution (Mains)
• Contemporary Issues: (Executive, Judiciary, Legislature) (Mains)
• Constitutional/Non-Constitutional Bodies
• Contemporary Issues: Governance (Mains)
• International Relations (Mains)
• Contemporary Issues: International Relations (Mains)
• Economy (Prelims)
• Sectors Of Indian Economy (Mains)
• Policy & Reforms In Indian Economy (Mains)
• Contemporary Issues: Sectors Of Indian Economy (Mains)
• Contemporary Issues: Policy & Reforms In Indian Economy (Mains)
• Science And Technology (Prelims)
• General Science (Prelims)
• Science And Technology (Mains)
• Contemporary Issues: Science & Technology (Mains)
• Environment (Prelims)
• Environment (Mains)
• Contemporary Issues: Environment (Mains)
• Internal Security Challenges In India (Mains)
• Contemporary Issues: Internal Security Challenges In India (Mains)
• Ethics (Mains)
• Applied Ethics
• Salient features of Indian Society
• Diversity of India
• Effects of globalization on Indian society
• National Integration, communalism, regionalism & secularism
• Role of women and women’s organization
• Social empowerment, poverty and developmental issues
• Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable section
• Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources
• Issues relating to poverty and hunger
• Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.

Unity in Diversity

• Concepts of Unity and Diversity
• Forms of Diversity in India
• Reasons for so much Diversity
• Bonds of Unity In India
• Geo-political Unity
• The Institution of Pilgrimage
• Tradition of Accommodation
• Tradition of Interdependence
• Role of Sensitive Leaders
• Constitutional Safeguards – Role of Constitution Framers

Challenges of Diversity to Unity (Challenges to National Integration)

• Diversity of Constituents
• Regionalism and Cultural Identities
• Communalism
• Social Inequalities
• Regional Disparities
• Ethno-Nationality and Ethnic Conflicts
• Tribal Identity
• Basic Sociological Concepts
• The Family and Kinship
• Concept of Patriarchy In India
• Secularism And Secularization
• Western and Indian Concept
• Process of Secularization
• Secularism and Forced Conversion in India

Regionalism, Communalism, Fundamentalism and communal Violence

• Regionalism
• Regionalism in India
• Types of Regionalism
• Effects of Regionalism
• Regionalism: Demand for Smaller States
• Strategies to tackle Regionalism
• Sons of Soil Concept
• Communilism Concept, Orgin, Impact
• Fundamentalism-religious, Cultural
• Communal Violence

Social Empowerment

• Constitutional Provisions Relevant to Social Justice & Empowerment of Scheduled Caste & Scheduled Tribes
• Status of Minorities In India

The Scheduled Castes: From Untouchable to Dalit

• Population of the Scheduled Castes
• Types of Disabilities of the SCs
• From Untouchables to the Dalits: The Process of Identity Formation
• Combating Mechanism against Caste Atrocities and Violence
• The State Efforts for Dalit Emancipation
• Identify Political Implications on Dalits

Tribals in India

• Chronic Indebtedness
• Forest Related Problems
• Destruction of the Forest Environment and the Tribal People
• Development and Displacement
• Analysis of Forest Rights Act

Women Movements

• 19th Century Women Movements – Under Social Reform Movements
• Women’s Issues During Gandhian Era
• Issues in Post Independence Era
• Violence Against Women
• Developmental Movement
• Uniform Civil Code
• Feminism and Post Feminism

Social Justice

• Concept of Casteism in India
• Caste and Politics
• The Reservation Policy Debate
• Social Justice and Social Development

Social Security In India

• Social Security System in India
• Organized Sector and Social Security
• Unorganised Sector and Social Security
• Centrally Funded Social Assistance Programmes
• Public Initiatives
• Review of the implementation of Social Security Laws in the Country
• Suggestions for Improving the Social Security Matrix
• Social security code for all

Understanding Poverty

• Dimensions of Poverty
• Linkage between Poverty and Development
• Recommendations of Rangarajan Committee Report
• Poverty Alleviation Strategy Since Independence
• Programmes for Poverty Alleviation
• Concept of Inequality

Globalization

• Meaning of Globalization
• Reasons for Globalization
• Dimensions/Impact
• Cultural and Social
• Anti-Globalization Movement
• New Localism
• NPM (New public management)           

Urbanization & Census 2011

• Urbanization
• Trend and pattern of Urbanization
• Issues Related to Urbanization in India
• Status of Service Delivery and Governance
• Urban Development Projects
• Critical Analysis of Smart City Mission
• SDG’s and urbanization

Census 2011

• Highlights of 2011 Census
• Analysis of Sex Ratio Data
• Impact of Skewed Ratio
• Laws related to Prevent Female Infanticide
• Recent initiatives
• Trend and Current Scenario of Literacy in India
• Literacy Challenges in India as Whole
• Efforts to Improve the Literacy in Country
• Child Health Indicators and Maternal Health             
• Initiatives taken by the Government
• Why the Health schemes fail to bring change?
• Family Planning and Population Policy of India
• Analysis on Status of Old Age Population: Issues & Policy Initiative
• Socio-Economic Caste Census 2011

Contemporary Issues

• Secularism and Anti Conversion    
• Regionalism: Demand for Smaller States     
• Socio-Economic Caste Census, 2011            
• Gender Discrimination in the Corporate Sector

Issues Related to Women

• Gender Discrimination in Corporate Sector
• Female Genital Mutilation
• Bill on Banning Triple Talaq
• Issues of women entry to place of worship
• Adultery No Longer a Crime : SC
• Unwanted Girls in India
• Altruistic Surrogacy in India
• Women in Panchayats
• Women Participation in Economy
• # Me Too Movement
• Draft National Policy for Women, 2016
• Laws Related to Stalking in India
• Debate on the Issue of Marital Rape
• India’s Maternity Laws need Serious Tweaking         
• Women in Judiciary Matters
• SC’s Judgment on Dowry
• Gender Budgeting: Critical Analysis

Issues Related to Children

• Issues Faced by Children in War Zone
• High Dropout Rate of Girls in India
• Child Trafficking
• Safety of Children in Schools
• Issue of Malnutrition in India
• Amendments Proposed in Child Labour Act
• Plight of Street Children
• Juvenile Justice System
• Child Marriages in India
• Death for child Rape
• Draft National Child Protection Policy
• National Action Plan for Children, 2016

Other Issues

• India’s Family Planning Programme: Critical Analysis
• Demography and Policy Planning
• India’s Ageing Report
• Legalising Same Sex Marriage
• Domestic Workers: Issues and Laws
• Development Leading to Displacement
• Moral Policing
• Euthanasia and Living Will
• Inadequacies in existing Human Trafficking laws in India
• Transgender Bill passed in Lok Sabha with Amendments
• Mental Health Care Bill
• Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act
• Manual Scavenging
• Mob lynching and Rule of Law
• Issue Related to Under trials
• Income Inequality in India
• Indigenous People in India : An Analysis
• Debate Over Death Penalty
• Global Slavery Index Report
• Right to Privacy Judgement
• SC Verdict on SC/ST Atrocities Bill
• Social Stigma Attached with HIV

Health & Education

• Status Health sector
• Status of Education sector
• Allied Health Care Professions Bill, 2018
• Ahead on Malaria: On reduction in cases in India
• India and Neglected Disease Treatment
• TB Status in India and Bedaquiline Patent Challenge
• Status of E-Pharmacies in India
• Changes Proposed in No Detention Policy
• National Policy on Education
• Capacity Building for Primary Health Care
• NITI Aayog on Privatisation of Urban Health Care
• National Health Policy, 2017
• Regulating Private Healthcare
• India’s Nutrition Challenge
• Food Fortification
• Sanitation and Nutrition Linkage
• Ayushman Bharat

Miscellaneous

• Is social media polarizing society?
• Online political adverstising and challenge for democracy and society
• Draft Social Security Code
• Critical Analysis of Stand Up India Scheme
• SC Suggests for Prison Reforms
• Statue of Unity

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Essay on indian society: top 3 essays | sociology.

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Here is an essay on ‘Indian Society’ for class 11 and 12. Find paragraphs, long and short essays on ‘Indian Society’ especially written for school and college students.

Essay on Indian Society

Essay # 1. meaning of society:.

The term society refers not to group of people but to the complex pattern of the norms of interaction that arise among and between them. It consists of not only mutual interactions and mutual interrelations of the individuals but it is also a structure formed by these relations. According to Maclver society is— “A web of social relationship.”

Just as life is not a thing but a process of living so society is not a thing but a process of associating.

According to Ginsberg – “A society is a collection of individuals united by certain relations or modes of behaviour which mark them off from other who do not enter into these relations or who differ from them in behaviour.”

According to Parsons – “Society may be defined as the total complex of human relationships in so far as they grow out of action in terms of mean-end relationships, intrinsic or symbolic.”

According to Prof. Wright – “Society is not a group of people. It is the system of relationships that exist between the individuals of the group.”

Society exists only when the members know each other and possess common interest or objects. The members who constitute the society must realise their likeness and their interdependence. They must have a community of feeling. Society is the whole system of social relationships and not a mere agency for the comfort of the beings.

Society is a permanent institution and is a kind of natural organisation which has emerged out of natural instincts of man. The true nature of society consists not in the external factors of interdependence or likeness or authority but in the state of mind of the beings that compose society. Three main types of society tribal, agrarian and industrial have been marked out on this globe. The African society is tribal, the Indian society is ‘agrarian’ (peasant) while the American society is industrial.

Essay # 2. Social Structure of Indian Society :

In a social structure, human beings organise themselves into associations for the pursuit of some object. The social structure of Indian society is heterogeneous character.

Social structure refers to the network of social relationship which is created among the human beings when they interact with each other according to their statuses in accordance with the patterns of society.

Definitions of Social Structure :

According to S. F. Nadel – “We arrive at the structure of a society through abstracting from concrete population and its behaviour, the pattern on network of relationships obtaining between actors in their capacity of playing roles relative to one another.”

According to Ginsberg – “Social structure is concerned with the principal forms of social organisation i.e., types of groups, associations and institutions and complex of these which constitute societies.”

According to Radcliffe Brown – “The components of social structure are human beings, the structure itself being an arrangement of persons in relationship institutionally defined and regulated.”

According to Karl Mannheim – “Social structure is the web of interacting social forces from which the various modes of observing and thinking have arisen.”

According to Talcott Parsons – “Social structure is the term applied to the particular arrangement of inter-related institutions, agencies and social patterns, as well as the status and roles which each person assumes in the groups.”

On the basis of above definitions we can see that social structure is an abstract phenomenon. It refers to the external aspects of society. Each society has a pattern of organization composed of the structures resulting from associations of men with each other. It may be a group, an association or an organization. Institutions, associations, groups, organizations and community are parts of social structure— instruments through which it functions. Social structure can be explained with the help of organic structure where body is an arrangement of different body parts like hands, legs, nose, ears, mouth etc.

These parts are arranged in a particular & systematic way so as to create a pattern and body works through these parts which are interdependent and inter-related. Though parts of organic structure are same in every case yet the form of organic structure of people differs like long, short, fat, lean and thin. In the same way, parts of all social structures are same—i.e. every social structure has a family, religion, political organization, land areas etc. but the forms of social structure like the form of family is not similar in all social structures. Some families have one husband, one wife and their children. Some have several wives one husband and their children.

In nutshell it can be said that:

1. Social structure is an abstract and intangible phenomenon.

2. As individuals are the units of associations and institutions so these associations and institutions are the units of social structure.

3. These institutions and associations are interrelated in a particular arrangement and thus create the pattern of social structure.

4. It refers to the external aspect of society which is relatively stable as compared to the functional or internal aspect of society.

5. Social structure is a ‘living’ structure which is created and maintained for a time and changes.

Social System :

Social structure is closely related to the concept of social system. Social structure is the ‘means’ through which the social system functions. Social system refers to – “Functional aspect of social structure”

Talcott Parsons – “A social system consists in a plurality of individual actors interacting with each other in a situation which has at least a physical or environmental aspect.”

Social system is constituted by the actions of individuals. It involves participation of an actor in a process of interactive relationship in accordance with social norms. On the basis of their interaction and inter-relationship they create a pattern which is called social system.

The social structure of Indian society is comprised of various socio-religious institutions.

Essay # 3. Features of Social Structure of Indian Society :

India has been a country where numerous groups migrated from Asia and Europe. The social structure of Indian society is characterised by diversities and unity. But over the time, culture of each group has undergone changes and has become the part of Indian society culture. Even the process of economic development has brought revolutionary changes in the Indian pattern of social life.

1. Pluralistic Society :

Indian society is a pluralistic society with a complex social order characterised by a multitude of ethnic, linguistic, religious and caste divisions. Hindus constitute the majority community and comprise about 82% of the population. They stand evenly distributed across regions. The Muslims constitute 12% and the Sikhs 2% of the population. Muslims are concentrated in J and K, Assam, Bihar, U.P., Kerala and West Bengal.

Christians are concentrated in the small states of Northeast-Nagaland, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and the Sikhs are concentrated in Punjab. These distributions have an important bearing upon the politics of these areas. The Muslim-concentrated areas are communal riots areas; the concentration of Sikhs in Punjab is a determinant of Politics in Punjab.

2. Predominantly Rural Society :

About 70% of the Indian people live in villages and Indian villages continue to be under-developed even backward. Lack of civic amenities, employment opportunities, roads, transport facilities, electricity, hospitals and schools in rural areas is a hard reality. The gains of industrialisation and development during the past 45 years have mostly been cornered by the urban areas. On an average a city dweller earns nearly 2.5 times more than a ruralite. The gains of technological break-through and industrialisation are yet to reach the villages. Urban-rural gap is a reality of our society.

The ruralites feel that though agriculture accounts for a major part of India’s national income, the rural areas continue to lag behind because of the governmental policies which favour the urbanites. In the democratic political process, the rural people by virtue of their large majority play an active and dominant role and yet the leadership in India continues to be in the hands of the urban elite.

Of late, the government of India has started giving due importance to the objective of rural development. IRDP, NREP, Panchyati Raj etc. are all designed to achieve this objective. The growing awareness among the rural people and their increasing participation in the political process are healthy signs yet the process continues to be slow.

3. Poverty :

Poverty of the masses is an important feature of Indian social system. Despite the fact of having made considerable progress in the fields of agriculture and industrialisation, India continues to be an economically backward country. It still remains world’s 15th, poorest nation despite maintaining an overall industrial growth rate of 3 to 5% and an agrarian growth rate of 2 to 3%.

The increase in GNP from 1.3% in 1947 to 3.6% in 1980 has failed to match the growing number. A large number of Indians continue to live below the poverty line. The economic development of the society through organised plans and all round industrial and technological development constitutes the biggest and most challenging objective of the Indian polity. The objective of economic upliftment is of at least 90% of the people by the end of 8th. Five Year Plan period is indeed laudable, yet chances of achieving it appears to be weak.

4. Illiteracy and Ignorance :

Illiterates constitute a major part of Indian social system. A large number of Indians are still illiterate. Nearly 64% of the population continues to be illiterate. Despite the spread of the educational network and adoption of ideal like free and compulsory education for children upto 14 years and the ideal of making 80 million adults literate by 1995, India remains a state inhabited by a large majority of illiterates. The population explosion and poverty combined with inadequate resources and efforts have all combined to perpetuate the problem.

The political process continues to be predominated by illiterate masses who are exploited by literate and neo-literate leaders. Even many political leaders have a vested interest in perpetuating illiteracy and public ignorance because they use them as their vote bank and as a means for maintaining their leadership. The faulty system of education has further compounded the evils of illiteracy. Even the literates have failed to keep away from casteism, communalism, factionalism, regionalism, indiscipline and corruption.

Politics in India continues to operate in an environment of illiteracy and ignorance. Nevertheless, with the passage of time the people of India are learning through formal and informal means of education, gaining experience and becoming more and more mature. Illiteracy creates so many social problems. The need is for more determined governmental action and strong social support in this respect.

5. Linguistic Diversity :

Communalisation of language is another factor which is polluting the social environment of India. On the basis of language, Indian society stands’ divided into linguistic groups. The constitution of India recognises as many as 15 languages as the major languages which are spoken by 87% of population. There are as many as 1652 ‘mother tongues’ in India. In the North-east region alone, which constitutes just 8% of the Indian Territory and 4% of the population, there are 432 languages.

Hindi is spoken by nearly 31% of the people followed by Telegu which is spoken by nearly 9% of the population. Linguistic diversity and emotional and parochial love of people for their regional languages have forced the government to accept and follow the principle of re-organisation of Indian States on the basis of languages i.e. the creation of linguistic states. This feature has, further, hindered the recognition and use of Hindi as the official language of the Union.

The Southern States are not prepared to accept Hindi as the national language and instead are prepared to retain English as the medium of communication with the centre and other states. Language has emerged as a key factor of social and political tension in India.

Hindi has failed to get support as the National Language and attempts to popularise it as regarded by the people of the South, particularly in Tamil Nadu, as ‘impositions’ and they oppose it through aggressive and violent protests. In some states like Punjab, which is a bilingual state, the three language formula stands implemented but it has unduly burdened the educational system and within the state has divided the people on language basis.

6. Racial Diversity :

India is inhabited by people of different racial connections. People of the North are of Aryan race whereas the people of South represent the Dravidian race. In the Eastern States people have affinity with Mongolian race. The racial inter-mixing has taken place but only in a limited way.

The principle of unity in diversity is accepted and yet diversities are many times allowed to dominate the objective of unity. The constitution categorically ends racial discrimination and provides for secularism as the best way, yet in actual operation of socio-political processes, racial factor plays a role in India.

7. Caste and Casteism :

Caste and casteism has been the pre-dominant feature of Indian social system. It is an ancient evil which continues to influence India’s social, economic, cultural and political life. The constitution in abolishing untouchability and in providing for no discrimination on the basis of caste and creed has taken a great step towards their dilution, if not elimination of caste and casteism. But in the actual process of Indian society, caste and casteism continue to be major factors.

An attempt is on to limit their role. Increased social mobility and inter-mixing of people living in various parts of the country continues to be a major factor in the political processes like political socialisation, leadership recruitment, political communication, political participation and voting behaviour.

Caste membership and caste loyalties continue to influence the popular participation in politics. Even the constitution provisions for reservation of seats and jobs for the people belonging to Scheduled Castes and Tribes have failed to produce the desired integrative effect.

Caste system has deep historical roots and hence cannot be abolished. It has been playing an integrative role but only at the group level. It has helped the formation of social groupings in an otherwise vast and heterogeneous population. Hence what is needed is not its abolition but the cultivation of the ability to limit its role and prevent it from acting as a source of communalism, regionalism and parochialism.

8. Communalism :

The presence of communal tension and the periodic outbreak of communal riots have been the bone of Indian social system. Even after 50 years of independence these continue to strain the socio-political system. The existence of some regional and communal political parties adds fuel to the fire. Exploitation in the name of religion, election campaigns based on communal lines and use of religion as a pressure group are practised by political parties, which prefers secularism and also those which are based on a particular religion.

Communalism remains a big strain on India’s efforts towards nationalism. The menace of communalism constitutes a big danger to the unity and integrity of the nation. Even the spread of literacy and operationalisation of several control mechanism have produced little success towards the elimination of this menace.

The rejection of communal electorates and the implementation of a communal electrode too have failed to produce the desired results. Each year the state has to spread a huge amount of money for preventing and controlling riots and providing assistance to riot affected people. All this seriously limits the capabilities of Indian social system.

9. Regionalism :

Religious, linguistic, cultural and caste diversities prevailing in the Indian society have together strengthened the forces of regionalism. Love and concern for one’s local area of inhabitation is something natural. The adoption of federal structure presupposes the existence of some regionalism due to which the division of powers is done between the federal government and the federating units. India is not an exception to generalisation.

But unfortunately, regionalism in India often takes the form of sub-nationalism or even anti- nationalism. The sons of the soil principle and the existence of several regional political parties with narrowly conceived regional goals have aggravated the problem. People belonging to a particular region or state regard fellow citizens who belong to other areas/regions/states as outsiders. People of Haryana regard Punjabis outsiders and even raise such slogans as Haryana for Haryanavis.

Similar cries are also heard from other parts of the country. Inter-State boundary disputes, Punjab and Haryana Inter-State river water disputes, Kaveri water dispute, demand for more and more autonomy for the states, separate states and independent states are manifestations of regionalism which characterise Indian society and which keep the political system under stress. The need to channelise ‘regionalism’ and make it a contributing part of nationalism is one of the biggest tasks before the Indian socio-political system.

10. Tradition and Modernity :

Tradition and modernity exist side by side in the Indian society. The attempts of modernisation of tradition as well as traditionalisation of modernity are simultaneously present. Tradition is clearly being affected by modern trends and pressures like politicisation of caste, lessening of caste consciousness among the urban elites, operationalism of modern western tools of administration and government etc. but at the same time modernity after gets coloured with traditionalism when the social and political elites talk in terms of age old glorious traditions of India.

The Indian approach towards development reflects both tradition and modernity. As Rajni Kothari writes, “The Indian approach to development may be characterised as one in which the exposure to modernity led to a renewed awareness and quickening of traditional identity; its reinterpretation, rejuvenation and its consolidation in the framework of new institutions and ideas. The Indian response to modern stimuli consisted of asserting the Indianness of India, reformulating this Indianness and giving it a modern character. The model of those who conceive modernisation as a rejection of traditionality and transformation on modern lines does not apply to India nor does the opposite model of those who deny potency to modern institutions and values and simply assert the durability and re-silence of traditionalism.” What is happening in India can be described as an attempt as a synthesis of tradition and modernity for achieving a new identity without destroying its rich diversity and cultural heritage.

11. Problem of Social Communication :

The environment of Indian social system also reflects a problem of social communication. Social structure of Indian society is based on the factors of illiteracy and backwardness of a large section of population. Linguistic diversity greatly aggravates this problem. This has tended to maintain or even increase the gap between the elites and the masses. This problem is clearly reflected between high and low castes, illiterates and literates, urbanites and ruralites etc.

All these social factors are the determining factors of the environment of Indian social structure, social system and political system. These are mostly problematic factors. Indian political system is a developing democratic system operating within an environment characterised by over-population, poverty, underdevelopment, casteism, communalism, regionalism, linguism, terrorism and violence. Despite these constraints, India’s socio-political system has been successfully maintaining its stability as a system.

It has been engaged in the process of securing development through control over these limitations by making and implementing desired authoritative values as well as through the spread of literacy, direct political socialisation, organised economic planning and policies and above all through active involvement of the people in the process of socio-economic development. After independence, the process of all-round socio-economic political-cultural development has been initiated through several well-conceived policies and Five Year Plans.

The progress has been slow, the problems have been many and restraints have been big, yet the people of India are on the march of social change. The political system has been leading, guiding, directing, coordinating and controlling this march.

It is harnessing the resources of the country and channelising the socio-economic-cultural factors for ushering India towards the developmental goal. It has successfully exhibited its ability in the sphere of crisis management and in maintaining progress on the road towards peace, security and prosperity. The need of the hour is to put in more vigorous and determined efforts towards state-building, nation-building, citizen-building and system-building.

Social structure of Indian society is, therefore, characterised by religious, regional, linguistic and caste diversities. There are social conflicts among the various institutions of Indian society. Social institutions are closely related to each other. All institutions face the problem of continuously adjusting themselves to a changing society. Changes in the social environment may bring changes in all the institutions. Inflation may have a radical influence on marriage, death, crime and education.

Breakdown of economic institutions may have great effects upon political institutions. Any change in an institution may lead to a change in the other institutions. No institution can avoid affecting other institutions or avoid being affected by others. All the social institutions of Indian society are affecting the political and cultural institutions.

Political system, being a part of social system, is working under the influence of social environment. Although there is diversity and conflict in the social structure of Indian society yet these diversities and conflicts have become unique features of Indian social system. They are on the path of adjusting themselves to the social environment keeping in view the unity and integrity of the nation. The contemporary presence of conflict in the society is a sign of increased and increasing awareness.

Indians have a firm belief in unity in diversity, toleration and peaceful conflict-resolution. The people of India are fully alive to the problems and strains that affect their society and the political system. They are conscious of their glorious traditions and the inner unity of the people of India as Indians. Modernisation of tradition and all-round development, social, economic, cultural, scientific, industrial, and technological are bound to integrate Indians into a strong united and developed nation.

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UPSC Main Paper 1 2024: Important essay topics, previous year’s question paper and more

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• Justice and mercy balance precariously on the edge of circumstances.
• The quest for knowledge is an ever-expanding journey toward the boundaries of understanding.
• True greatness in life is found not in never stumbling, but in the resilience to rise each time we fall.
• Clarity and comprehension emerge beyond the fog of doubt.
• A nation’s strength is reflected in the safety and empowerment of its women.
• Poverty extends beyond financial deprivation, encompassing the denial of opportunities and choices.
• Progress should not compromise democracy and individual freedoms.
• The mind holds the power to transform its own reality, creating heaven or hell within.
• Compassion, empathy, and forgiveness are noble qualities that enhance the human experience.
• In the face of change, some erect barriers while others harness the power of the winds to propel forward.
• The greatest punishment for avoiding leadership is to be ruled by someone less capable.
• The strongest minds often belong to those who speak the least.
• Some rules are more respected when broken than when followed.
• The strong do what they must, and the weak accept what they must.
• True glory lies not in never falling, but in rising each time we do.
• Power doesn’t corrupt; rather, people corrupt power.

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Major Upanishads and Their Themes: Exploring Ancient Wisdom|UPSC Notes

The Major Upanishads are among the most important philosophical texts in Indian literature, offering profound insights into the nature of reality and the self. These ancient texts, composed between 800 BCE and 500 BCE, form the core teachings of Hindu philosophy. The Major Upanishads explore themes like the nature of Brahman (the ultimate reality), the concept of Atman (the self or soul), and the relationship between the individual and the cosmos. These texts have influenced countless spiritual traditions and continue to be studied for their deep philosophical insights.

• The Major Upanishads explore the nature of Brahman and Atman.
• They emphasize self-realization as the path to spiritual liberation.
• The texts are written as dialogues between teachers and students.

The Major Upanishads are not just religious scriptures but also philosophical treatises that address the fundamental questions of existence. They seek to understand the nature of the universe, the purpose of life, and the path to spiritual liberation. These texts are written in the form of dialogues, often between a teacher and a student, and emphasize the importance of self-realization and knowledge.

Table of Contents

The Essence of the Upanishads

The Major Upanishads delve into the essence of existence, focusing on the realization of the self and the ultimate truth. One of the central themes is the concept of Brahman, the ultimate, unchanging reality that underlies the entire universe. The Upanishads teach that Brahman is infinite, formless, and beyond human comprehension. However, it can be experienced through deep meditation and spiritual practice.

Another key theme in the Major Upanishads is the concept of Atman, the innermost self or soul. The Upanishads assert that Atman is identical to Brahman, emphasizing the unity of the individual soul with the universal consciousness. People consider realization as the highest form of knowledge, leading to liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death.

Chandogya Upanishad

The Chandogya Upanishad explores the sacred syllable om, which is considered the sound of the universe and the essence of all creation. The Chandogya Upanishad teaches that meditating on Om leads to the realization of Brahman. It also discusses the importance of knowledge and the process of creation, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all beings.

Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad is another significant text among the Major Upanishads. It introduces the concept of “Neti Neti,” meaning “not this, not that.” The phrase is used to describe the process of understanding Brahman by negating all that is not Brahman. The Upanishad emphasizes the importance of self-inquiry and understanding that the true self (Atman) is beyond all physical and mental attributes.

Katha Upanishad

The Katha Upanishad is one of the most well-known among the Major Upanishads. It narrates the story of a young boy named Nachiketa, who engages in a dialogue with Yama, the god of death. The Upanishad explores the nature of the soul, the afterlife, and the path to immortality. True knowledge of the self leads to liberation and understanding the eternal nature of atman can overcome the fear of death.

Mundaka Upanishad

The Mundaka Upanishad distinguishes between two kinds of knowledge: lower knowledge, which includes worldly learning, and higher knowledge, which is the knowledge of Brahman. The Upanishad is particularly important among the Major Upanishads for its focus on the renunciation of worldly desires and the pursuit of spiritual wisdom. It teaches that only through higher knowledge can one achieve liberation.

Isha Upanishad

The Isha Upanishad is one of the shortest but most profound among the Major Upanishads. It begins with the declaration that the entire universe is pervaded by the presence of the divine. The Upanishad emphasizes the unity of the self and the universe, teaching that true freedom comes from understanding this unity. It also discusses the balance between action and renunciation, encouraging a life of harmony with the world.

Influence of the Upanishads

The Major Upanishads have had a profound impact on the development of Indian philosophy and spirituality. Their teachings form the basis of Vedanta, one of the six schools of Hindu philosophy. The Upanishads have also influenced various other spiritual traditions, including Buddhism and Jainism. Their emphasis on self-realization, meditation, and inner knowledge continues to resonate with spiritual seekers around the world.

The themes explored in the Major Upanishads are timeless and universal, addressing the fundamental questions of human existence. Their teachings on the nature of reality, the self, and the path to liberation offer a deep understanding of the spiritual journey. The Upanishads encourage individuals to look within and discover the true nature of their being, leading to a life of wisdom and fulfillment.

The Major Upanishads are a treasure trove of spiritual wisdom, offering profound insights into the nature of existence. Their exploration of themes like Brahman, Atman, and the unity of the self with the universe has shaped the spiritual landscape of India and beyond. The teachings of the Major Upanishads continue to inspire and guide those on the path of self-realization. They made them as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago. Through their timeless wisdom, the Major Upanishads provide a roadmap for understanding the deeper truths of life and achieving spiritual liberation.

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