Indian Society & Social Justice - 4 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Salient Features of Indian Society

What is Society?

• A society is a group of individuals living in a specific area, sharing common cultural, religious, linguistic, or value-based traits. Indian society exemplifies this with its intricate blend of different religions, cultures, ethnic backgrounds, and social classes, each contributing to a vast array of customs and traditions that influence daily interactions and lifestyles.

General Traits of Indian Society

• Diversity: India is marked by its vast diversity in geography and culture, with numerous languages, religions, and ethnic groups, each possessing distinct customs and traditions.
• Hierarchy: Traditionally, Indian society has been organized by a strict social hierarchy, where certain groups have historically held more privileges.
• Family-oriented: The family is the cornerstone of Indian society, providing essential emotional and financial support.
• Religion: Religion plays a crucial role in daily life, influencing aspects like food, clothing, and rituals. Major religions include Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Sikhism, Jainism, and Christianity.
• Respect for elders: Elders are highly respected in Indian culture, and showing disrespect towards them is considered offensive.
• Hospitality: Indians are known for their warm hospitality, often going to great lengths to make guests feel comfortable.
• Cultural syncretism: The Indian subcontinent has a long history of different cultures and religions coexisting and interacting.
• Secularism: India’s government and constitution promote secularism, ensuring equal rights and religious freedom for all citizens.

Salient Features of Indian Society

1. Multi-ethnicity India is a multi-ethnic society with a variety of ethnic groups including: 

• Indo-Aryans: Found throughout India, especially in the North and West. 
• Dravidians: Predominantly in the Southern states such as Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. 
• Mongoloids: Primarily in the Northeastern states like Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh. 
• Tribals: Spread across all states, with significant populations in central and northeastern India. 
• Europeans and others: Mainly in urban areas across all states. 

2. Multilingualism India is home to a vast number of languages, with the 2011 Census identifying 121 languages after processing raw data of 19,569 mother tongues. 

• Scheduled Languages: 22 languages are recognized in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, spoken by 96.71% of the population. 
• Non-Scheduled Languages: 99 languages spoken by 3.29% of the population. 
• Major Languages and Speakers: Hindi (52.83 crore), Bengali (9.72 crore), Marathi (8.30 crore), Telugu (8.11 crore), Tamil (6.90 crore), Gujarati (5.54 crore). 

3. Multi-religious Religion is a significant aspect of identity in India, with major religions including: 

• Hinduism: 79.80% 
• Islam: 14.23% 
• Christianity: 2.30% 
• Sikhism: 1.72% 
• Buddhism: 0.70% 
• Jainism: 0.37% 
• Other religions: 0.66% 
• Not stated: 0.22% 

4. Caste System The caste system, with origins in the Vedas, has historically governed Indian social and religious life, assigning specific roles and privileges to different groups. 

5. Family, Marriage, and Kinship

• Family Structure: Indian families are typically patriarchal, with the eldest male as the head. Families are often extended, including relatives beyond the immediate household. 
• Marriage: Marriage is a vital institution, often arranged within the same caste or sub-caste. Endogamy, or marrying within the same group, is commonly practiced.  For example, arranged marriages are still prevalent, even in urban areas, where families play a significant role in selecting a spouse. 
• Kinship: Kinship ties are strong, and relatives often provide support and assistance in various aspects of life. 
• Dowry System: In some regions, the dowry system, where the bride's family provides gifts or money to the groom's family, continues to be practiced, despite legal restrictions. 

6. Tribalism Tribes in India exhibit a wide range of diversities including languages, modes of livelihood, ecological settings, and levels of development. Each tribe has its own unique characteristics such as: 

• Common Topography: Tribes often share a specific geographical area that shapes their way of life. 
• Sense of Unity:. strong feeling of togetherness and identity within the tribe. 
• Endogamous Groups: Tribes typically marry within their group, maintaining genetic and cultural continuity. 
• Common Dialect:. shared language or dialect that strengthens community bonds. 
• Protection Awareness: An understanding of the need to protect their rights and resources. 
• Distinct Political Organization: Tribes often have their own systems of governance and leadership. 

7. Co-existence of Traditionalism and Modernity Indian society is in a constant state of flux, balancing traditional practices with modern influences. The impact of colonization introduced new customs, while contemporary changes are driven by liberalization, privatization, and globalization (LPG). 

8. Individualism and Collectivism Indian society embodies both individualistic and collectivist traits: 

• Individualism: Emphasis on personal achievement, privacy, and self-reliance is growing, particularly in urban areas. 
• Collectivism: Strong community ties, interdependence, and collective decision-making remain important, especially in rural areas. 

9. Spiritualism and Materialism

There is a harmonious balance between spiritual and material pursuits:

• Spiritualism: Practices like yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda are widely embraced for holistic well-being.
• Materialism: Economic growth and material success are also prioritized, with a growing emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation.

Overall, spiritual and material aspects are viewed as complementary, contributing to a well-rounded life.

Factors Threatening Peace and Harmony in Indian Society

• Poverty: Extreme poverty can harm the morale and self-esteem of individuals, leading to stress and strained relationships.
• Economic Inequality:. significant gap between the wealthy and the poor can create social tension and conflict.
• Religious Conflicts: Disputes between different religious communities can result in violence and crime, hindering progress and fostering fear.
• Juvenile Delinquency: Crimes committed by minors can destabilize families and communities, creating a pervasive sense of insecurity.
• Gender Inequality in the Workplace: Discrimination against women in professional settings limits societal potential and perpetuates low status for women’s issues.

Strengthening Suicide Prevention Efforts in India 

 The recent Lancet article emphasizes the urgent need for stronger political commitment to address the pressing public health issue of suicide prevention in India, where over 1 lakh lives are lost annually. 

 National Suicide Prevention Strategy (NSPS) 

• Launch Year: The NSPS was launched in 2022. 
• Goal: To reduce suicide mortality by 10% by 2030. 
• Approach: Multisectoral collaboration, inclusiveness, and innovation. 
• Vision: To create a society where individuals value their lives and receive necessary support during critical times. 
• Key Objectives:
  •  Establish psychiatric outpatient departments in all districts within five years. 
  •  Integrate a mental well-being curriculum into all educational institutions within eight years. 
  •  Develop guidelines for responsible media reporting of suicides. 
  •  Restrict access to means for suicide. 

 Suicide Scenario in India 

•  Annual Deaths: In 2022, India reported over 1.7 lakh suicides, with significant numbers among daily wage earners, agricultural laborers, and farmers. 
• Increase in Suicide Rate: From 2019 to 2022, the suicide rate rose from 10.2 to 11.3 per 1,00,000. 
• State Statistics:
  •  Maharashtra: 22,746 suicides 
  •  Tamil Nadu: 19,834 suicides 
  •  Madhya Pradesh: 15,386 suicides 
  •  Karnataka: 13,606 suicides 
  •  Kerala: 10,162 suicides 
  •  Telangana: 9,980 suicides 
• Common Causes:
  •  Family Problems 
  •  Unemployment 
  •  Farmers Distress 
  •  Financial Problems 
  •  Illness 
• Other Contributing Factors:
  •  Drug Abuse 
  •  Alcohol Addiction 
  •  Marriage-Related Issues 
  •  Dowry-Related Problems (notably affecting women) 

 Need to Address Suicide Prevention in India 

• Impact on Individuals and Society: Each suicide profoundly affects family and friends, highlighting the broad social and emotional consequences. 
• Mental Health Stigma: Cultural stigma prevents open discussions about mental health, misinterpreting suicide as weakness or sin, which hinders preventive efforts. 
• Societal Pressure: Norms on academic, career, and gender expectations create pressure, making it hard for individuals to seek help. 
• Economic Burden: The economic impact includes healthcare costs and lost productivity, affecting the national economy. 

 Challenges and Solutions for Suicide Prevention in India 

Initiatives Related to Suicide Prevention in India 

• National Mental Health Programme (NMHP): The District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) is implemented in 738 districts, providing outpatient services, counselling, continuing care, and inpatient facilities at the district level. 
• National Tele Mental Health Programme: Launched in 2022 to enhance access to quality mental health counselling and care services nationwide. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment also introduced a 24/7 toll-free helpline “KIRAN. for mental health support. 
• Ayushman Arogya Mandirs: Over 1.6 lakh Sub-Health Centres (SHCs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Urban Primary Health Centres (UPHCs), and Urban Health and Wellness Centres (UHWCs) have been upgraded to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. 
• Manodarpan Initiative: An initiative by the Ministry of Education under Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan to provide psychosocial support for mental health and well-being during Covid-19. 

Supreme Court: Right to Shelter is a Fundamental Right 

Why in the News?

• The Supreme Court highlighted the need to balance railway infrastructure development in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, with the fundamental right to shelter for nearly 50,000 people accused of illegally encroaching on railway land. 

What was the Case?

• The hearing was based on an application filed by the Railways seeking to modify a January 2023 Supreme Court order. 
• The January order had stayed a Uttarakhand High Court direction to evict the families within a week, even using paramilitary forces. 
• The Railways’ application pointed out that the Ghaula River flood had disrupted railway operations in the region and that more land was urgently needed to lay new tracks. 

What is the Right to Shelter?

• The right to shelter is derived from the Right to Life under Article 21 of the Constitution of India, which guarantees the protection of life and personal liberty. 
• Article 19(1)(e) provides the Right to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India. 

Judicial pronouncements related to it:

• Olga Tellis v. Bombay Municipal Corporation (1985): The Supreme Court recognized the right to livelihood as a part of the right to life under Article 21. 
• Chameli Singh v. State of Uttar Pradesh (1996): The Supreme Court declared that the right to shelter is a fundamental right under Article 21. It includes adequate living space, safe and decent structures, clean surroundings, light, air, water, electricity, and sanitation. 
• Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation v. Nawab Khan Gulab Khan (1997): The Supreme Court directed the state to construct affordable houses for the poor, reiterating the state’s duty to provide shelter and make the right to life meaningful. 

Various Legislations supporting the Right to Shelter:

• The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 
• The Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 
• The Slum Areas (Improvement and Clearance) Act, 1956

State of Healthcare in Rural India 2024

Introduction

•  The 'State of Healthcare in Rural India, 2024' report was recently released by the NGO Transform Rural India and the Development Intelligence Unit. 
•  The survey included 21 states, such as Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh, with a sample of 52.5% male and 47.5% female respondents. 

 Key Findings 

 Health Insurance Coverage 

•  Only 50% of rural households have government health insurance, while 34% lack any health insurance. 
•  61% of surveyed households do not have life insurance. 

 Access to Diagnostic Facilities 

•  The main reason for the lack of diagnostic facilities in rural areas is the shortage of trained personnel. 
•  Only 39% of respondents have access to diagnostic centres within a reasonable distance. 
•  90% of respondents do not undergo routine check-ups without consulting a doctor. 

 Access to Subsidized Medicines 

•  Only 12.2% of households have access to subsidized medicines from Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras. 
•  26% of respondents have access to government medical stores providing free medicines located within health facilities. 
•  61% of respondents have access to private medical stores within commuting distance. 

 Drainage System 

•  20% of households report no drainage system in their villages, while only 23% have a functioning drainage system. 
•  43% of households lack a scientific waste disposal system and dispose of waste indiscriminately. 
•  Only 11% of households burn dry waste and compost wet waste, while 28% report plans for household waste collection by local panchayats. 

 Care for the Elderly 

•  73% of families with elderly members require ongoing care, with 95.7% preferring family caregivers, mainly women (72.1%). 
•  Only 3% of households employ paid external caregivers, and 10% rely on neighborhood support due to a lack of caregivers. 

 Care for Pregnant Women 

•  Caregivers for pregnant women include husbands (62.7%), mothers-in-law (50%), and fathers (36.4%). 
•  The report highlights the need for strong social networks, supportive environments, and capacity building for family caregivers. 

 Mental Health Disorders 

•  45% of respondents experience anxiety and restlessness affecting their mood, with older individuals being more affected. 

 Out-of-Pocket Expenditure 

•  Out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) accounts for 47.1% of total health expenditure in India. 
•  In Odisha, 25% of households face healthcare costs, and 40% resort to loans or asset sales for healthcare expenses post-hospitalization. 

 Shortage of Qualified Personnel 

•  India faces a severe shortage of qualified health professionals in rural areas, with Chhattisgarh having the highest doctor vacancies in primary health centres (PHCs), followed by West Bengal, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. 
•  The national vacancy rate for Auxiliary Nurse and Midwife (ANM) is 5%. 

 Doctor-Patient Ratio 

•  The doctor-patient ratio in India is approximately 1:1456, worse than the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended ratio of 1:1000, particularly in rural areas. 

 Lower Public Health Expenditures 

•  State expenditure on health is low at 1.28% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with rural health infrastructure receiving a smaller budget share, leading to underfunded health facility centres. 

Solutions 

Strengthening Health Insurance Coverage 

•  Expand government health insurance schemes like Ayushman Bharat to include the 'vanishing middle class' lacking health insurance, reducing out-of-pocket expenditure and preventing debt due to healthcare costs. 
•  Cover all factory workers under state-sponsored health insurance schemes. 

 Encouraging Rural Postings for Healthcare Workers 

•  Provide attractive incentives such as higher salaries, better living conditions, and career advancement opportunities to healthcare professionals willing to work in rural areas, focusing on states with high vacancies. 

 Expansion of Medical Education 

•  Increase the number of medical colleges and nursing schools in rural areas to train students with a focus on rural healthcare needs, improving the doctor-patient ratio. 

 Taking Advantage of Technology 

•  Utilize telemedicine and mobile health clinics to bridge the doctor-patient ratio gap in rural areas, providing remote consultations and follow-up care while reducing the burden on existing health facilities. 

 Mobile Diagnostic Units 

•  Deploy mobile diagnostic units to remote areas for essential diagnostic services, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for healthcare. 

 Community-Led Sanitation Programmes 

•  Encourage community participation in maintaining sanitation facilities and waste management through programmes like Swachh Bharat Mission, adapted to local needs for sustainable sanitation practices.

Caste Movement in India 

Why in News? 

Recently, several political parties have called for a new Indian caste census following the Supreme Court's ruling on sub-categorisation within reserved castes. Caste is often seen as central to South Asian society, similar to how race is in the United States, class in Britain, and faction in Italy. The last national-level caste census in India took place in 1931 during British rule. 

What is the History of Caste Movements in India?

Historical Context

•  By the late 19th century, caste became a pervasive aspect of daily life in India, often defined by Brahminical notions of purity and pollution. 
•  Lower castes aggressively resisted these notions, and social mobility between castes was restricted, particularly through prohibitions on inter-caste marriages. 

Colonial Legislation

•  The colonial administration enacted laws like the Criminal Tribes Act of 1871 in North India, later extended to Bengal and Madras presidencies. 
•  This Act allowed the colonial state to label entire communities as criminals, reinforcing negative stereotypes based on caste or tribal affiliations. 
•  Such communities were deemed inferior in their jati and varna traits, unfit for employment in the colonial army and state apparatus. 
•  The Act persisted until 1949, after which it was replaced by the Habitual Offenders Act of 1952. 

Divide and Rule Policy

•  Following the 1857 Revolt, British leaders sought to diversify the Indian army and colonial offices, reducing dominance by any single community. 
•  Caste became a criterion for provincial education and government service, seen as a potential obstruction to nationalist sentiments and a means to perpetuate British rule. 

What were the Key Figures in Caste Movements?

Jyotiba Phule

•  A 19th-century Marathi activist and founder of the Satyashodhak Samaj, Phule was among India's first anti-caste ideologues. 
•  He wrote  Gulamgiri  (1873), highlighting the plight of 'untouchables' and crediting Muslim rulers, Christian missionaries, and the British for fostering egalitarian values. 
•  Phule introduced the term 'Dalit' to the anti-caste lexicon and criticized texts like the Manusmriti for oppressing indigenous people and tribes. 
•  His anti-caste mobilization inspired later leaders like B.R. Ambedkar. 

B.R. Ambedkar

•  Ambedkar mobilized Dalits with the slogan, 'We must become a ruling community.' 
•  He led the Mahad Satyagraha in 1927, advocating for 'untouchables' to access public water sources. 
•  In December 1927, he publicly burned the Manusmriti, seen as a source of caste oppression. 
•  He founded the All India Depressed Classes Association in 1930 and later established the Independent Labour Party and All India Scheduled Castes Federation. 

M.C. Rajah

•  The All India Depressed Classes Leaders’ Conference in 1926, held in Nagpur, marked a significant moment for pan-Indian Dalit movements. 
•  This conference led to the formation of the All India Depressed Classes Association. 
•  M C Rajah, a key figure in this movement, presided over the conference, with Ambedkar serving as one of its vice presidents. 

Periyar

•  In the Madras Presidency, Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy, known as Periyar, established the anti-Brahminical Self-Respect Movement. 
•  This movement laid the groundwork for his leadership in the Justice Party in 1939. 

Mahatma Gandhi

•  In response to the separate electorates for Depressed Classes under the Communal Award, Gandhi fasted to protest what he saw as a division of the Hindu community. 
•  To address this, Gandhi and Ambedkar signed the Poona Pact in 1932, which established joint electorates for Hindus and increased reserved seats for Depressed Classes. 
•  In the same year, Gandhi founded the Harijan Sevak Sangh to promote untouchability eradication and caste upliftment. 
•  However, Gandhi's emphasis on varnashrama was not aligned with Ambedkar's views. 

Reversal in British Policy

•  Due to the impending Partition of the subcontinent, the Ambedkarite movement was gradually overshadowed by the need to establish India's constitutional framework. 
•  By 1945, the colonial administration aimed to depoliticise caste during the power transfer, contributing to the idea of a united India. 

What is the Difference Between Gandhi's and Ambedkar's Ideologies?