Topic: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.
Q2. Explain the changing nature of family institutions in India. Analyse how these changes have influenced the demand for reforms in personal laws. Suggest suitable measures for balancing reform with diversity. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question
Recent debates on Uniform Civil Code and reforms in family laws have renewed attention on how changing social realities are influencing the evolution of personal laws in India.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires explaining the changing nature of family institutions in India, analysing how these changes have generated the demand for reforms in personal laws, and suggesting measures to balance legal reform with India’s social and cultural diversity.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly explain how socio-economic change has transformed family institutions, creating new legal and social expectations.
Body
- Changing nature of family institutions: Mention the major social transformations in family structure and relationships.
- Demand for reforms in personal laws: Explain how these changes necessitate reforms in marriage, divorce, inheritance and related family laws.
- Balancing reform with diversity: Suggest broad principles for ensuring equality while respecting India’s plural social fabric.
Conclusion
Conclude by emphasising that constitutional values and social consensus should together guide future family law reforms.
