Topic : Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country.
1. Post- Independence, integration and unification of India demonstrated to be a long process plagued with challenges. In this context, examine the early challenges that India faced as a newly independent country.(250 words)
Reference: Post Independent India by Bipin Chandra
Why the question:
The question is from the static portions of GS paper I.
Key Demand of the question:
One must examine the early challenges that India faced as a newly independent country.
Directive:
Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must look into the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Write about the prevailing conditions after independence in the introduction.
Body:
Briefly present the background of Post- Independence, integration and unification of India.
Mention how it created challenges for India- both external and internal; One can discuss these problems in phases – Phase 1 (1947- 1967), Phase 2 (1967-1977) and Phase 3 (1977- 1984).
Then explain the fact that Indian democracy is a heterogeneous model with a vast socio-religious and cultural diversity. It was predicted by western political analysts that the Indian model of democracy would not last long. However, it was due to India’s strong commitment to its constitutional principles that led India to not only survive as a nation but also to emerge as the leader of the newly independent countries.
Conclusion:
Conclude by mentioning India’s democratic credentials which helped India to survive as a nation.
