Topic: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.
1. In India, prejudices and differences and how they project onto politics co-exist alongside valuing diversity. Alternative ideas, inclusionary narratives exist even if the corresponding politics does not. Comment. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: Indian Express
Why the question:
Pew Research survey findings on religion and nationhood in India in July 2021 highlighted that valuing religious diversity (84 per cent) is among the key attributes of being an Indian along with respecting elders (88 per cent) and having an Indian ancestry (70 per cent). On the other hand, a majority also believes that being a Hindu (56 per cent) and speaking Hindi (57 per cent) are important. Among Hindus, the support is higher — for 64 per cent, being a Hindu and for 59 per cent speaking Hindi is important for Indian-ness.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about how differences and diversity and inclusivity coexist in India.
Directive word:
Comment– here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by defining various attributes of diversity.
Body:
First, mention the various political narratives which bring out sharp distinctions in prejudices. Throw light on homogenous tendencies which ignore diversity.
Next, write about how despite the above shortcomings how inclusion and diversity exist as cornerstones of Indian society. Substantiate with examples.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward to achieve inclusivity by overcoming political differences.
