Do you agree that ‘To Keep Ganga Clean, Puja should be Performed on the Bank of the River’? | UPSC Mains Essay Preparation PDF Download

To craft an essay on the topic "Do you agree that ‘To Keep Ganga Clean, Puja should be Performed on the Bank of the River’?" for the UPSC examination, it is essential to structure the essay meticulously. The essay should have a clear introduction, a well-argued body, and a compelling conclusion. Here is a structured approach:

Introduction

• Opening Quote/Phrase: A relevant quote or phrase that sets the tone for the essay.
• Context Setting: Briefly introduce the Ganga as a symbol of Indian culture and spirituality.
• Thesis Statement: Clearly state your position on the topic.

Body

• Paragraph 1: Historical and Cultural Significance of the Ganga
  • Discuss the Ganga’s importance in Indian history, culture, and religion.
  • Include references to its mention in religious texts and its role in rituals.
• Paragraph 2: Current State of the Ganga
  • Describe the pollution and environmental challenges facing the Ganga.
  • Include data and examples to illustrate the severity of the issue.
• Paragraph 3: Impact of Puja Rituals on Ganga’s Cleanliness
  • Examine how religious practices, including Pujas, contribute to pollution.
  • Discuss the materials used in Pujas and their environmental impact.
• Paragraph 4: Arguments in Favor of Riverbank Puja
  • Present arguments supporting the continuation of Pujas on the riverbank.
  • Discuss how these rituals are an integral part of Indian tradition and faith.
• Paragraph 5: Arguments Against Riverbank Puja
  • Outline the environmental and ecological arguments against performing Pujas on the riverbank.
  • Include alternative suggestions to minimize environmental impact.
• Paragraph 6: Role of Government and Society
  • Discuss initiatives by the government and NGOs to clean the Ganga.
  • Highlight the importance of public awareness and community involvement.

Conclusion

• Restate Thesis: Reaffirm your position in light of the arguments presented.
• Call to Action: Suggest measures for balancing religious practices with environmental conservation.
• Closing Quote/Phrase: A thought-provoking quote or phrase that encapsulates the essence of the essay.

Sample Essay

The following essay serves as a sample for the given topic. Students can add their own ideas and points as well.

“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” – John Muir

The Ganges or Ganga, more than just a river, is a testament to India’s rich cultural and spiritual tapestry. Revered as a goddess in Hindu mythology, the Ganga has been a silent witness to the evolution of Indian civilization. However, the contemporary state of the Ganga, marred by pollution, raises a critical question: Should Puja rituals continue to be performed on its banks? This essay explores this question, weighing the religious significance against environmental concerns.

Historically, the Ganga has been central to Indian spirituality. It's not just a river but a divine entity, immortalized in scriptures and epics. The belief that bathing in its waters purifies the soul has attracted millions over centuries. Cities like Varanasi and Haridwar, thriving on its banks, are epitomes of this religious fervor.

However, the Ganga of today narrates a tale of neglect and abuse. Once the lifeline of North India, it now features in the list of the world's most polluted rivers. Industrial effluents, domestic sewage, and agricultural runoff have choked its vitality, threatening the ecosystem it supports.

A significant contributor to this pollution is the religious rituals performed on its banks. Puja practices, involving offerings like flowers, incense, and idols, add substantial organic and inorganic load to the river. The immersion of idols, often made of non-biodegradable materials and toxic paints, further exacerbates the problem. The irony is stark – the river considered the purifier is in need of purification.

Proponents of riverbank Puja argue for the preservation of tradition. They emphasize the river's historical and cultural significance, viewing these rituals as an unbroken link to the past. Additionally, these practices are more than religious acts; they are part of a collective identity, an expression of belonging to a community and a culture.

On the other side, environmentalists and ecologists argue for the urgent need to re-evaluate these practices. They suggest alternative methods like eco-friendly idols and symbolic offerings to reduce the environmental footprint. The focus is on adapting traditions in harmony with environmental conservation.

The role of government and civic bodies is pivotal in this context. Initiatives like the Namami Gange project reflect the state's commitment to reviving the river. However, mere policy formulation is not enough. Public awareness campaigns, community participation, and strict regulation of industrial discharge are equally crucial.

In conclusion, while it is essential to preserve our cultural and religious practices, it should not be at the cost of environmental degradation. A middle path, respecting religious sentiments while adopting environmentally sustainable practices, is the need of the hour. As Mahatma Gandhi rightly said, “Earth provides enough to satisfy every man's needs, but not every man's greed.” It is time to revisit our practices and ensure that our reverence for the Ganga is not just in rituals but also in our actions towards preserving her purity.