Essay: May 2023 UPSC Current Affairs | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

Culture Does not Make People, People Make Culture

A Nation's Culture Resides in the Hearts and in the Soul of its People             Mahatma Gandhi

Culture is an essential component of society, providing a framework of beliefs, values, and behaviors that influence the way people interact with one another. It shapes our worldviews and identities, and it reflects the collective experiences of the people who make up a particular community. However, while culture plays an important role in shaping individuals and society, it is ultimately people who shape culture.

The statement "Culture does not make people, people make culture" suggests that culture is not something that is predetermined or static, but rather something that is constantly evolving and shaped by the actions and choices of individuals. In other words, culture is not something that exists independently of human agency but is instead created and recreated by human beings through their interactions with one another.

While culture provides a framework and influences individuals, people possess the ability to make choices. They can deviate from cultural norms, challenge existing beliefs, and adopt new perspectives. People have the capacity to think critically and make decisions based on personal experiences and individual values, which may not always align with cultural expectations.

This idea is particularly relevant in today's globalized world, where the interconnectivity of people and cultures has led to the blending and evolution of traditions and practices across geographic and cultural boundaries. As individuals interact with one another and share their ideas and experiences, they bring their unique perspectives and values, which can lead to the formation of new cultural norms and practices.

Cultures are not homogenous entities, but rather diverse and multifaceted. Within any culture, there are variations in beliefs, practices and values among individuals. People within the same culture can hold different opinions, engage in different behaviors, and embrace alternative lifestyles. This diversity within cultures indicates that individuals have the capacity to shape their own identities and make choices that may go against certain cultural norms.

Furthermore, the actions and choices of individuals can have a significant impact on the direction and evolution of culture. For example, cultural icons, such as musicians, actors, and artists, can influence the attitudes and behaviors of their followers, and their impact can be felt across generations. Similarly, social movements and political leaders can shape the values and beliefs of a society, which can ultimately lead to changes in cultural norms and practices.

People are not solely influenced by their own cultural background. In today's interconnected world, individuals have increased exposure to different cultures through travel, migration, communication, and the internet. These interactions allow for the exchange of ideas and the adoption of new perspectives, which can shape an individual's worldview and behavior. Exposure to diverse cultures provides opportunities for personal growth and the development of unique identities that transcend cultural boundaries.

However, the influence of individuals on culture is not limited to those in positions of power or influence. Everyday people also have the power to shape culture through their interactions with one another. This can include everything from the way we communicate and express ourselves to the way we consume goods and services.

Cultures are not static entities. They evolve and change over time as societies progress, adapt to new circumstances, and interact with other cultures. Social, economic, and technological advancements contribute to the transformation of cultural norms and values. Individuals play an active role in this process through cultural innovation, social movements, and the reevaluation of existing norms. This dynamic nature of culture allows for individuals to challenge and shape cultural practices.

Culture is a living entity that evolves and grows with the collective experiences of a community. One of the fascinating aspects of culture is how daily practices can transform into traditions and, ultimately, shape the fabric of an entire culture.

Daily practices form the bedrock of human routines and interactions. They are the repeated actions and behaviors that individuals engage in on a regular basis. These practices often stem from practical needs, social norms, or personal beliefs. Examples include rituals, routines, and customs observed in various aspects of life, such as meal preparation, greetings, or religious practices.

As daily practices are consistently followed and passed down from generation to generation, they acquire a deeper meaning and value. The repetition and preservation of these practices instills a sense of continuity and connection to one's heritage. Individuals recognize the significance of these actions, attributing them to their ancestors or cultural origins.

Traditions emerge when a group of people collectively adopt and continue to practice specific daily rituals. As communities adhere to these traditions, they strengthen their cultural identity. Rituals become markers of belonging, forging a sense of unity and shared heritage among community members. The act of passing down these traditions ensures their continuity, as they become a cherished part of cultural heritage.

The transformation of daily practices into traditions and their subsequent integration into a culture exemplify the intricate interplay between human agency and collective identity. Through the preservation and reinforcement of traditions, individuals cultivate a sense of belonging and perpetuate cultural heritage. The evolving nature of culture, fueled by the reinterpretation of traditions, allows for the growth, expansion, and resilience of societies. Daily practices are the seeds from which traditions and cultures blossom, shaping our worldviews, values, and shared human experiences.

In many ways, the ability of people to shape culture is a reflection of the fundamental human need for connection and belonging. We are social beings who seek to find meaning and purpose in our lives through our interactions with others. As we come together in communities and share our experiences, we create and recreate culture in ways that reflect our shared values and beliefs. 

Culture is a dynamic and ever-evolving entity that is shaped by the choices and actions of individuals. While culture provides a framework and influences individuals, people possess the agency to challenge norms, adopt new perspectives, and create cultural change. The interconnectedness of our globalized world further facilitates the blending and evolution of cultures. As individuals interact and share ideas, they contribute to the formation of new cultural norms and practices. Ultimately, the power of individuals to shape culture reflects our innate need for connection and our capacity for personal growth and change.

“Culture is the Widening of the Mind and of the Spirit.”             Jawaharlal Nehru

The Time to Repair a Roof is when The Sun is Shining

“The future depends on what we do in the present.”                        -Mahatma Gandhi

The right way to live life is to prepare yourself for the odds before it knocks on your door. The time to repair a roof is when the sun is shining revealing these secrets. If we have the savings for our health, education and other expenditures then the impact of circumstances like the Covid-19 will be managed more precisely. India could handle well the covid -19 pandemic due to its early investments in the health infrastructure. India had to reflect on its plight on a number of instances when times were tough. 

The Indian economy and its many sectors such as manufacturing, services, and agriculture, as well as other areas such as defense have all suffered significant setbacks in the past. Learning from prior failures improves experiences and leads to multidimensional progress. Globalization brings itself more progressive ideas and ways of life. Society and the economy are both impacted by this progressive way of life. It changes society from inside and outside both. 

This change reflected in the empowerment of the women. As the women getting empowered, they are being aware of their rights and duties. More women are now enjoying the equitable opportunities they truly deserve as a result of the globalization of the market. They now have a number of alternatives and opportunities to enhance their working conditions. 

The Indian Constitution's Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Fundamental Duties, and Directive Principles all explicitly state the importance of gender equality. In addition to guaranteeing women's equality, the Constitution gives the State the authority to implement policies that positively discriminate in favor of women. Great social reformers in the past, such as Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Swami Vivekananda, Acharya Vinobha Bhave, and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, among others, outlawed repugnant customs like sati and child marriage and tirelessly fought for the advancement of women in India. Article 14 guarantees the right to equality for women, whereas Articles 15(1) and 15(3) provide the state the authority to take affirmative action for women's empowerment.

The economic history of India demonstrates that there have been several situations where tough circumstances have prompted India to weigh its alternatives. Independence sparked ideas of social, political, and economic freedom. The Indian government made the choice to build India's future on the strength of its heavy industry. In 1950, India formed the Planning Commission to supervise all facets of planning, including resource allocation, implementation of the five-year plan, and plan review. 

The Indian economy has experienced numerous ups and downs during the past seven decades. The years of economic crisis in 1966, 1981, and 1991, as well as India's recovery from the crisis as the world's fastest-growing major economy, are among the significant turning points in India's economic history. The only way to prevent the recurrence of similar crises, India has to work diligently to restore its roof when the sun is shining.

Following independence, India's economy remained mostly agrarian for a long time. Any robust economy is built on its foundation of the industrial sector. The productivity and production were incredibly poor. Technology was not advanced and lagged behind. Only the cotton and jute industries were well-established at that point of time. 

The country's infrastructure has to be improved as one of the first conditions for economic growth. Today, it is close to Rs 150 lakh crore. India, formerly referred to as a "third world country," today ranks among the world's largest economies. This journey of India from Rs 2.7 lakh crore to 150 lakh crore GDP reflects that India has tried a lot to repair its roof when the sun is shining by utilizing appropriate opportunity at right and right time.

When India became independent in 1947, the colonial military of British India became the armed forces of independent India. The Indian Military was split equally between India and Pakistan as a result of the division of India. After World War II, a substantial demobilization campaign resulted in the discharge of the vast majority of the 1.25 million wartime troops and the dissolution of their regiments. 

Three wars between India and Pakistan 1947–1948, 1965, and 1971 were huge setbacks for India's security. During these set back India fought very precisely and when the war was over the introspection revealed that the army should be modernized and enlarged. India appears to be modernizing its nuclear and military capabilities. 

Nuclear deterrence and no first attack are India's publicly stated policies. However, as seen by its modernization efforts, particularly its ballistic missile program, India is eager to bring all of China within striking range. India's nuclear arsenal is the seventh largest in the world. These are the few steps India is doing to fix its roof so it can protect itself from any external aggression or war.

The share of agriculture in employment declined from about 82% in 1950/51 to about 72 percent by 2001. During the same duration, the share of agriculture in total GDP also declined from approximately 54% in 1950/51 to 24% by 2001. This shift is basically indicating that dependability on agriculture for employment is reducing because the industrial sector is providing employment to the agricultural laborer as an industrial worker. 

India transformed from a country with a food scarcity to one of the top agricultural producers in the world. This was made possible by the Green Revolution. The green revolution was launched during the second Five Year Plan to address India's food deficit problem.

Due to its geoclimatic characteristics, India is one of the countries that is most susceptible to natural disasters. Therefore, international cooperation in this field is necessary for the effective management of disasters both within and outside of India's boundaries. 

At the Glasgow climate summit, the Indian government unveiled the Infrastructure for Resilient Island States (IRIS) program. IRIS uses satellite-based modeling and information systems to help Small Island Developing States to strengthen their technological and institutional capability in order to anticipate, avoid, and reduce the loss and damage brought on by catastrophes. 

This is a result of the rising understanding that institutional preparedness is essential for successfully managing disasters as a result of prior disaster experiences. Disaster management is increasingly viewed as a process that includes analyzing threats, strengthening community ability, and lowering identified risks through disaster-resistant infrastructure and preparation at all levels.

Remote sensing technology is playing a key role in disaster management. Satellite imaginary imbanded with huge geological, meteorological and climatic and information which is being used in scientific work and other research and developments. ISRO is the organization which took the initiative to launch the satellite to propagate the new dimension for research and development. 

Satellite imaginary and data are prominently being used by researchers to estimate the change in land use land cover, Loss of biodiversity air pollution, ground water table etc., The Indian space program was started by Dr. Vikram Sarabhai. India's first satellite, Aryabhata, was launched on April 19, 1975.

Just three years after India's independence, the Indian Institute of Technology was established in 1950. The effects of globalization are being felt in the Indian society as changes are being accumulated in it. Both the economy as a whole and every sphere of society were affected by globalization. 

Despite the fact that science has long been a part of a worldwide community, the science and technology (S&T) sector of the twenty-first century is more geographically dispersed, more networked, and more dynamic than ever. In its first five-year plan following independence, India placed a high priority on scientific research. Preeminent scientific institutions like the IITs and IISC were made possible by it. These organizations supported research in India by working with overseas organizations.

Since India's independence, both the installed power generating capacity and the transmission and distribution infrastructure have expanded significantly. The nation's total power-producing capacity has increased, rising from a meagre 1362 MW in 1947 to 448.11 GW by the end of March 2020. Coal based fire plants are the primary source for energy production. 

Issues with pollution and the disposal of the sizeable amount of ash from coal-based power plants, which form the backbone of India's electricity generation, are being resolved by using strategies to encourage environmentally friendly power development. 

In order to address concerns with pollution and the disposal of the sizeable amount of ash from coal-based power plants, which are India's main source of energy generation, efforts are being enhanced to encourage environmentally friendly power generation. To lessen the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, the NTPC and other Central Power Sector Undertakings are creating a Special Purpose Vehicle.

Long term objectives of India include an overall development of industrial, agricultural and services sectors. Modernization based on rural development, industrial development, Infrastructure, raw material supply etc. will sustain the overall economic development for a long time. 

Thus, in this way we can say that the government has repaired the roof for the development of the entire economy. It will be helpful in resolving all types of existential financial concerns.

When men are employed, they are best contented.          -Benjamin Franklin

Lending Hands to Someone is Better than Giving a Dole

-Aditya Choppa

Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others. According to Dalai Lama, our prime purpose in life is to help others. Helping each other is what makes us humans special. Compassion and altruism are the basic components of humanness. Even the most hard-hearted person might have helped someone in need at some point of time. 

Helping others is the fundamental characteristic of humans, but different people do it in different ways. Some tend to donate money to charitable organisations, some people give money to the poor directly, some people volunteer to do social work, while some create work for others. It is important to understand which type of help is most beneficial to humankind. As a Chinese proverb says, "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime." This essay gives examples of alternative ways of helping people that are more helpful than just donating money.

Recently, Chennai experienced one of the worst floods in over 100 years. Life had come to a standstill. The repercussions were such that almost all aspects of life were affected in the city, from public transport, railways, flights to electricity supply. In such crisis, help poured in from different corners of the world. Many contributed to flood relief fund. But this help couldn't reach the Chennai residents in time as the transportation facilities were derailed. 

This money could be only used for rehabilitation. But the helping nature of the locals, the various business entities in Chennai and initiatives by tech companies helped immensely in avoiding a major disaster. Individuals opened their houses while schools, movie theatres and marriage halls welcomed families and persons who needed a safe and dry shelter. 

Facebook initiated a Safety Check feature for Chennai floods, BSNL gave users in Chennai free local and STD calls, Paytm gave residents of Chennai a Rs 30 recharge to help them stay connected during floods, Ola joined hands - and resources - with the Chennai fire department to help residents reach their homes safely and Zomato launched 'Meal for flood relief' wherein people could order free meals for flood victims. Chennai floods made people united and take efforts to combat the disaster. Clearly, the helping hand lent by individuals and different companies helped the Chennai flood victims more than the money donated to the flood relief fund.

This principle can be seen in our day-to-day life too. Many of us tend to give money or food to beggars. This doesn't really help them to get out of poverty. In India, begging is quite often carried out in organized gangs. 

Beggars have also been known to deliberately maim and disfigure themselves to get more money. In these circumstances, real help would be, to provide some source of livelihood to them, rather than giving them money which incentivises them to continue their lifestyle. It would be more compassionate to buy an item from a street hawker, even if we don't require it, to provide him livelihood. Many of us tend to donate money to different welfare organisations, orphanages, old-age homes, NGOs etc. 

But some of them could be just scams, while some organisations may waste money on managerial duties instead of actually helping the needy. It would be much more useful if we give clothes, blankets, food or time to these organisations depending on the need. Instead of giving money, it would be much more useful if one can lend his/ her expertise to help others. 

For example, a teacher can provide free tutions for the poor, a doctor can volunteer some time in a week at a free clinic, a lawyer can provide his legal services to the poor and a software engineer can help in decreasing digital divide. In this way, one can ensure that their contribution directly benefits the people in need.

In democratic states, the governments have a tendency to provide a number of freebies, especially during election year. Loans are waived, electricity is subsidized, water is subsidized, free television and laptops are given and so on. 

But the need of the hour - better governance, timely public services, corruption free state, good public infrastructure, good business environment, reliable law and order etc - are not provided. If there are no irrigation canals, the subsidized fertilizers are of no use to a farmer in drought years. If there are constant power cuts, the subsidized electricity doesn't help the industries in the area. 

Providing free education without increasing the number of quality teachers doesn't solve the problems of education. Clearly, doling out money instead of providing good governance is not a step in the right direction.

Even in international relations, the utility of rendering a helping hand rather than giving aid in money can be recognized. America has been giving billions of dollars in aid to Pakistan to keep a lid on the Taliban issue. Much of the American money is not making its way to frontline Pakistani units. Money has been diverted to help finance weapons designed to counter India, not Al Qaeda or the Taliban. 

This is an illustration of how aid money can be wrongly utilized and in fact can be counter-productive to the intended purpose. In contrast, India's aid to Africa is quite productive as it contributes by supporting human resource development, building Pan African e-network which now connects 48 African countries, increasing foreign direct investment, sending peacekeeping forces etc. 

Clearly, there is larger scope for misuse of financial aid than the aid provided in kind. Projects like developing roads, developing human resources, constructing dams, providing medical services in countries like Afghanistan will nnot only ensure that aid has reached the deserving people, but it will also increase the goodwill towards the country providing aid. 

This principle can be used in Climate Change negotiations too. More than the money given for the less developed countries to counter climate change, giving them technology that enables development at lower carbon emissions will help them more. This has to be recognized and focus should be on transfer of technology rather than on increasing money for Green Climate Fund (GCF).

It is not that money and financial resources are unimportant, in fact they are essential part for success of most of the humanitarian efforts. While a major disaster during the Chennai floods was averted due to the helping nature of the locals, the rehabilitation was possible because of the money donated by philanthropic people. 

While some of the beggars are part of an organized gang, there are a lot of people languishing in poverty who do need financial assistance. Social security net for the poor is essential even in developed countries. Many under-developed and developing countries do need aid money, so that the help received can be utilised in accordance to the needs at ground level. 

Clearly, money is intrinsic part of most of the help being given, but one should recognize that there is much more to helping others than just providing money. Doling out money should not become the de facto method of helping others. There are many more valuable ways in which one can help others. Giving financial help is just one of the ways.

Helping others should be the primary motivation of any human being. The help need not always be in the form of donating money. Rendering a helping hand through offering services or expertise is much more valuable. 

Moreover, one should recognize the kind of help that is required. Different circumstances require different kinds of help. In the example of Chennai floods, the most appropriate help at that time was to provide shelter and food, which could be arranged at a short notice, thanks to the helping nature of Chennaites. In most circumstances, one should help people help themselves. 

As Henry Ford has said, "Time and money spent in helping men to do more for themselves is far better than mere giving".