[ Day 6 – Synopsis ] 75 Days Mains Revision Plan 2023 – Modern India and Post-Independence & Case Study

Modern India and Post-Independence

Q1.  Examine the influence of William Bentinck’s tenure on the course of British rule in India, particularly in terms of administrative reforms and social initiatives? (10M)

Introduction

Lord William Bentinck, who served as the Governor-General of India from 1828 to 1835, made significant contributions to the course of British rule in India. During his tenure, Bentinck implemented a series of administrative reforms and social initiatives that had a profound and lasting impact on India.

Body:

Influence of William Bentinck’s tenure on the course of British rule in India:

• Administrative reforms
  • Judicial Reforms: Bentinck introduced several key reforms in the judicial system. He established the Sadar Nizamat Adalat (Supreme Court) and Sadar Diwani Adalat (Appellate Court) to separate civil and criminal jurisdictions. These reforms aimed to ensure better administration of justice and promote the rule of law.
    • Bentinck also established the Indian Law Commission in 1833, which played a crucial role in codifying and modernizing the legal system in India.
  • Promotion of English Education: Bentinck made English the medium of instruction after passing the English Education Act 1835. English replaced Persian as the language of the higher courts.
    • He opened the Calcutta Medical College in 1835 and it became the first western medical school in all of Asia where people could be admitted irrespective of caste or creed.
  • Revenue settlement: Even in matters of revenue Bentinck left his mark. He launched the revenue settlements of the North West Province under the control of R.M. Bird. This settlement was for a period of 30 years and it was made either with the tillers of the soil, or with the landowners.
  • Military reforms: He reformed the military by banning flogging as a punishment in the British Indian army.
• Social initiatives:
  • Abolition of Sati: One of the most remarkable reforms initiated by Bentinck was the abolition of the practice of Sati in 1829 in Bengal presidency. The Regulation was extended to the Madras and Bombay Presidencies in 1830.
    • He also tried to control, with Ram Mohan Roy’s advocacy, practices like polygamy, child marriages and caste rigidity.
  • Ban on female infanticide and human sacrifice: Bentinck prohibited female infanticide and the custom of certain of newly born girls to be killed and against human sacrifices.
    • This practice killing female infants was very much prevalent in places like Rajputana, Punjab, Malwa and Cutch.
    • He not only prohibited female infanticide but declared them as punishable crime.
  • Suppression of thugee: He also did a commendable job of controlling organised Thuggee. Thugs were gangs of professional thieves and even murderers that had created a huge law and order problem. Thuggee was finished off by 1837.

Conclusion

Some of the policies of William Bentick had a positive impact, others were criticized or had unintended consequences. Nevertheless, his initiatives, such as the abolition of Sati and promotion of Western education, left a lasting legacy and contributed to the modernization of India.

Q2. How did the ethnic, geographical, and administrative difficulties in the Northeast India pose challenges to their integration into post-independent India? (15M)

Introduction

North East India (NEI) today comprises eight states of India, namely Sikkim and the “seven sister states”. The region is rich in biodiversity and untapped raw materials. It is connected to mainstream India through the 22 km narrow “Siliguri Corridor” which is commonly known as the chicken neck. The integration of Northeast India into mainstream Indian life has been on the national agenda from the very start of India’s journey as an independent nation.

Body:

Ethnic, geographical and administrative difficulties posing challenge to integration of Northeast into post independent India; –

• Ethnic Diversity: The Northeast region is home to around 40 million people including 213 of the 635 tribal groups characterized by numerous languages and cultures.
  • The profound economic and political changes in the wake of independence created a sense of unease among the tribal population of the region.
  • Eg: Brus were displaced from Mizoram to Tripura.
  • Feelings grew that the tribal traditions would be submerged into the mainstream and a new sense of identity and political consciousness led the tribal communities to differentiate themselves from the heartland. g. AASU agitation
  • The demand for autonomy or separate statehood by various ethnic communities, such as the Naga, Mizo, and Bodo, presented challenges to the integration process.
• Geographical Barriers: The Northeast is geographically isolated from the rest of India, with rugged terrains, dense forests, and numerous rivers.
  • The difficult and inaccessible terrain posed significant challenges in terms of connectivity, transportation, and communication.
  • Seeds of separateness during the colonial rule is the cultural chasm and lack of psychological integration with the rest of the country that makes for the distinctiveness of the region.
  • The nationalist struggle for freedom which otherwise unified the diverse Indian population did not touch the Northeast due to geographical isolation.
  • The lack of proper infrastructure and inadequate connectivity hindered economic development and administrative reach, making it difficult to integrate the region with the rest of the country.
• Administrative Complexity: The Northeast comprises eight states, each with its own unique characteristics, cultures, and historical backgrounds. The region’s administrative complexity, compounded by its diverse ethnic makeup, requires a nuanced and tailored approach to governance.
  • However, bureaucratic inefficiencies, inadequate infrastructure, and limited resources have hampered effective governance and impeded the integration process.

Efforts towards integration of NE to mainstream India:

• Special Provisions and Autonomous Councils: To accommodate the region’s diverse ethnic communities and aspirations, special provisions and autonomous councils have been established.
  • These include the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which grants autonomy to certain areas in the Northeast, such as the states of Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Tripura.
  • Autonomous councils, like the Bodoland Territorial Council in Assam, have been set up to address the specific needs and aspirations of ethnic communities.
• Peace Talks and Conflict Resolution: The Indian government has engaged in peace talks and negotiations with various insurgent groups in Northeast India. These efforts aim to address the grievances of these groups and find peaceful resolutions to long-standing conflicts.
  • Initiatives like the Naga Peace Accord and the Bodo Peace Accord have shown progress in resolving conflicts and promoting stability in the region.
• Creation of DoNER: DoNER was created by the Union Government in 2001, and in 2004 it was upgraded to a full-fledged Ministry for the promotion of development in North-eastern states.
• Protected Area Permit: Due to security reasons, certain areas have been declared as Protected Area/Restricted Areas where no foreigner can enter or stay without obtaining permit from the competent authorities.
  • In 2010, a protected area regime that had restricted visits to Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram by foreigners was relaxed.
• Infrastructure Development: The Indian government has prioritized infrastructure development in Northeast India to enhance connectivity and economic growth.
  • Major initiatives include the construction of road networks, expansion of railways, and improvement of air connectivity.
  • g. Projects like the Trans-Arunachal Highway, Bogibeel Bridge etc.
• Look East Policy/Act East Policy: The Indian government has pursued a policy of regional engagement and connectivity through its Look East Policy, later renamed the Act East Policy. This policy seeks to enhance ties with Southeast Asian countries, leveraging the Northeast region’s geographic location as a gateway to Southeast Asia.

Conclusion

With the dawn of the new century, the decades’ old fighting slowly receded and the Indian government has been successful in bringing the warring factions into confidence. Different peace treaties were signed in return for laying down arms. In recent times the focus has been on economic development which is believed to go a long way in mainstreaming north-east on par with the rest of India.

Ethics

Syllabus: Ethics in Private and public relationships

Q3.  “Ethics in public relationships is often determined by the transactional value one holds for others, however, there are also examples of moral agents who treat others in a dignified and as an end in themselves”. Explain the reasons behind such dichotomy. (10M)

Introduction:

Ethical relativity gives rise to a diverse range of ethical viewpoints and practices, leading to a dynamic landscape where the understanding and application of ethics can vary greatly. This phenomenon can be clearly observed while applying ethics in public relationships.

Body:

By analysing the underlying factors, we can gain a deeper understanding of why this dichotomy exists.

• Cultural and societal norms: play a significant role in shaping individuals’ ethical behavior in public relationships. In some societies, there is a strong emphasis on collectivism and communal values, while others are individualistic. For example, in many Indian communities, the concept of “seva” (selfless service) is deeply ingrained fostering responsibility and ethical conduct in public relationships.
• Personal values and upbringing: Those who have been raised with a strong moral foundation, emphasizing principles such as empathy, compassion, and fairness, are more likely to treat others with dignity and as ends in themselves.
• Systemic pressures and incentives: When individuals operate within systems or institutions that prioritize outcomes, results, or financial gains above ethical considerations, they may feel compelled to adopt a transactional mindset. For instance: Many doctors working in India’s private hospitals are under pressure to carry out unnecessary tests and procedures to meet revenue targets
• Individualistic Mindset and greed: where self-interest and personal gain take precedence over the well-being of others. For example, ABG Shipyard bank loan fraud, the implosion of the Kingfisher Airlines and of the Nirav Modi empire or the massive IL&FS Group fiasco highlights lack of ethical values among top executives.
• Inequality and lack of Moral Agency: Some individuals possess a strong sense of moral agency and view others as deserving of respect, dignity, and fairness but few don’t. The apathy of many migrant workers in Urban India exemplifies this mindset. As Gandhi said “The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members”
• Power Dynamics: Those in positions of power may exploit their authority for personal gain, while those with less power may feel compelled to engage in transactional relationships to secure their interests. Example: Politicians who misuse their authority for personal enrichment or engage in corruption.
• Lack of ethical Education and Awareness: Organizations that prioritize ethical training programs and promote a culture of integrity and ethical behavior among their employees are more likely to have individuals who act as moral agents in public relationships.

Conclusion:

The reasons behind the dichotomy between transactional and ethical behavior in public relationships stem from a complex interplay of individual values, societal norms, power dynamics, and external influences. By understanding these factors, we can work towards creating a societal culture that emphasizes empathy, fairness, and accountability.

Case Study

Q3. You grew up in a rural village where everyone knew everyone else. There was a natural bonhomie amongst all that transcended the barriers of religion, caste, economic status and others. You learnt the importance of love, care, compassion, brotherhood and more such things in this morality-enabling environment.

However, you had to move to a major metropolitan city owing to your higher studies. Here, you found the environment to be drastically different. Your landlord hardly cared about your financial situation, rent had to be paid, no matter any financial challenges or difficulties. The doctors treated you but not with any genuine care or kindness for you. People interacted only when they needed something from you. Your college also consists of teachers more interested in completing the syllabus rather than being genuinely concerned for your well-being and your friends were only interested in your gadgets and your fashion sense.

From an energetic young youth who was morally courageous and happy, you have turned into a pale human being questioning and doubting yourself at every given opportunity.

In the context of the above case study, answer the following questions:

1. 1. 1. What would you in your moral capacity advise the concerned person in the case study, if given a chance?
      2. What explains the differing nature of people in rural and metropolitan areas?
      3. What measures might you suggest for changing the unhealthy nature of people in metropolitan areas as found in the above case study?

Synopsis:

In this case study, we explore the contrasting experiences of an individual who transitions from a close-knit rural village to a bustling metropolitan city, examining the moral challenges and differences in values encountered along the way.

1. As a concerned individual, I would advise the person in the case study to hold on to their moral values and principles, even in the face of a challenging and morally ambiguous environment.

• Encourage to share his emotions: I would advise the concerned person in the case study to open up and share their emotions with trusted individuals. By expressing their feelings, they can seek support, understanding, and guidance, which can help alleviate the burden of doubt and loneliness they are experiencing in the metropolitan city.
• Find Joy in books: R.K. Narayan’s “Swami and Friends” and “The Guide,” portray the clash between traditional values and modern influences in Indian society. These narratives shed light on the challenges faced by individuals when transitioning from rural settings to urban areas, where moral values may be tested.
• Uphold virtue ethics: Encourage the person to embrace virtue ethics, focusing on developing and embodying virtuous qualities such as compassion, honesty, and integrity. By adhering to these ethical principles, they can navigate the morally challenging environment and positively influence those around them.
• Foster community interactions: Encourage the person to engage in ethical discussions and debates with peers, colleagues, and community members. Likewise, there would be many other students from rural areas who would be facing the same issues. By forming a community, they could overcome these challenges together.
• Explore mindfulness practices: Encourage the person to explore mindfulness practices such as meditation and self-reflection such as vipassana. These practices can help them develop self-awareness, inner strength, and resilience, which are essential for navigating the morally ambiguous environment.
• Seek mentorship: I would advise the concerned individual to seek mentorship from experienced individuals who have successfully navigated the transition from rural to metropolitan areas while upholding their moral values. They can be college seniors, professors, etc.
• Suggesting alternatives and opportunities: for finding friends. For example, inviting them to join in some activities that are fun, meaningful or beneficial for health, such as volunteering, meditating, exercising or spending time in nature.

2. The factors that may explain the differing nature of people in rural and metropolitan areas are:

• Individualism and competition: In metropolitan areas people focus on personal success and achievements. This emphasis on individual goals can sometimes overshadow the values of communal well-being and interdependence found in rural communities.
• Diversity and anonymity: The presence of numerous cultures, religions, and backgrounds can lead to a lack of cohesion and a diminished sense of community, making it more challenging to foster moral relationships.
• Fast-paced lifestyle: The fast-paced and demanding nature of metropolitan life can leave individuals with limited time and energy for building meaningful connections or engaging in acts of care and compassion. Prioritizing personal goals and work responsibilities can sometimes overshadow moral considerations.
• Moral relativism: Metropolitan areas may be more influenced by moral relativism, where ethical standards are seen as subjective and varying from person to person. This can lead to a greater tolerance for unethical behavior or a lack of shared moral values.
• Influence of globalization: Globalization and urbanization can bring about cultural shifts, where traditional values and community-oriented ethics may be overshadowed by Western individualistic values and consumerism.
• Social fragmentation: Metropolitan areas often experience social fragmentation, where individuals are disconnected from their immediate surroundings and neighbors. This lack of social cohesion can contribute to a sense of detachment and a diminished sense of responsibility towards others.

3. Measures for changing the unhealthy nature of people in metropolitan areas as found in the above case study.

• Implement ethical education programs: Introduce ethical education programs in schools and colleges that emphasize moral values, ethical decision-making, and social responsibility. “The purpose of education is to awaken the true intelligence and the true power of the soul.” – Swami Vivekananda
• Promote ethical leadership: Encourage organizations to prioritize ethical leadership by promoting leaders who exhibit moral virtues, demonstrate a commitment to ethical conduct, and prioritize the well-being of employees and the community.
• Encourage community engagement: Engaging in volunteer activities within the community, such as organizing cleanliness drives, conducting health camps, or participating in environmental conservation projects, brings people together for a common cause while promoting moral values like compassion, empathy, and social responsibility.
• Improve the quality and accessibility of public spaces: Improve streets as places designed to be more walkable, bikeable, safe and attractive for people of all ages and abilities. Create squares and parks as multi-use destinations. Surat is implementing a superblock model to improve the mobility and livability of its congested streets.
• Build local economies through markets: Markets are places where people can buy and sell goods, but also exchange ideas, information and culture. They can support local producers, entrepreneurs and artisans, as well as promote healthy eating habits and food security.
• Urban green spaces may support social cohesion by providing opportunities for social interaction, civic engagement, collective action and social learning among diverse groups of people. Bengaluru is enhancing its urban greenery through its Tree Census project, which aims to map and monitor the trees in the city.

Navigating the moral challenges of a metropolitan environment requires individuals to hold onto their ethical values, seek support, and actively participate in community bonding programs to foster positive change and build a compassionate society.

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