For this article:

24 Nov 2024·Source: The Indian Express
2 min
Polity & GovernanceSocial IssuesNEWS

PM Modi Calls to Counter Divisive Forces in Nation

PM Modi urges unity to counter divisive forces in India.

UPSCSSC
PM Modi Calls to Counter Divisive Forces in Nation

Photo by Ligio Pereira

Quick Revision

1.

PM Modi: Unity needed to counter divisive forces

Visual Insights

Countering Divisive Forces: A Multi-Dimensional Approach

This mind map illustrates the interconnectedness of social harmony, national integration, and inclusive growth in countering divisive forces, as highlighted by PM Modi's call.

Countering Divisive Forces

  • Social Harmony
  • National Integration
  • Inclusive Growth
  • Role of Governance

Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper II: Polity and Governance - Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.

2.

GS Paper IV: Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude - Role of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating values.

3.

Potential question types: Analytical questions on the challenges to national integration and the role of government policies.

View Detailed Summary

Summary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a united effort to counter divisive forces within the nation. Speaking at a recent event, PM Modi emphasized the importance of social harmony and national integration. He urged citizens to rise above divisive ideologies and work together for the progress and development of the country. The Prime Minister's statement comes amid ongoing debates on social cohesion and the need for inclusive growth.

Background

The concept of national integration in India has deep roots in its history, particularly during the independence movement. Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi emphasized unity and communal harmony to counter the divisive policies of the British Raj. The partition of India in 1947 underscored the fragility of social cohesion and the urgent need for national integration.

Post-independence, the Constitution of India, with its emphasis on secularism, equality, and justice, laid the foundation for a unified nation. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a crucial role in integrating princely states into the Indian Union. However, challenges such as linguistic diversity, regional disparities, and caste-based discrimination have persisted, requiring continuous efforts to promote inclusivity and harmony.

Latest Developments

In recent years, there has been increased focus on promoting social cohesion through various government initiatives and policies. The 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' program, launched in 2015, aims to enhance interaction and promote mutual understanding between people of different states and union territories. The rise of social media has presented both opportunities and challenges for national integration.

While it facilitates communication and information sharing, it also provides a platform for the spread of misinformation and hate speech, potentially exacerbating social divisions. The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) of 2019 and subsequent protests have highlighted the ongoing debates surrounding citizenship, identity, and inclusivity in India. The future outlook involves strengthening constitutional values, promoting inclusive development, and addressing the root causes of social divisions through education and dialogue.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Which of the following initiatives is/are aimed at promoting national integration in India? 1. Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat 2. Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana 3. National Integration Council Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: C

Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat and National Integration Council are directly aimed at promoting national integration. Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana focuses on rural development.

2. Consider the following statements regarding the National Integration Council (NIC): 1. It is a constitutional body established to promote national integration. 2. The Prime Minister of India is the Chairman of the NIC. 3. The NIC aims to combat communalism, casteism, regionalism, and linguism. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: B

The National Integration Council is not a constitutional body. It is an extra-constitutional body. The Prime Minister is the Chairman, and it aims to combat divisive forces.

3. In the context of promoting social harmony, which of the following is NOT a challenge to national integration in India?

  • A.Linguistic diversity
  • B.Regional disparities
  • C.Uniform Civil Code
  • D.Caste-based discrimination
Show Answer

Answer: C

While the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code is a debated topic, the absence of it is not directly a challenge to national integration. Linguistic diversity, regional disparities, and caste-based discrimination are significant challenges.