Q. Discuss each adjective attached to the word ‘Republic’ in the ‘Preamble’. Are they defendable in the present circumstances? (250 words, 15 marks)
Why the Question?
UPSC PYQ – CSE Mains – 2023
Keywords of the Question
- Adjective attached
- Republic
- Preamble
- Defendable
- Present circumstances
Directive Word
Discuss –Essentially this is a written debate where you are using your skill at reasoning, backed up by carefully selected evidence to make a case for and against an argument, or point out the advantages and disadvantages of a given context. Remember to arrive at a conclusion
How to approach this Question?
Introduction
- Briefly introduce the Preamble of the Indian Constitution.
- Mention the adjectives attached to the word ‘Republic’ (Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic).
- State the importance of these adjectives in defining the nature of the Indian Republic.
Body
- Sovereign:
- Define sovereignty.
- Discuss its relevance and defendability in the current context.
- Socialist:
- Define socialism.
- Analyze its implementation and challenges in present-day India.
- Secular:
- Define secularism.
- Evaluate the current state of secularism in India.
- Democratic:
- Define democracy.
- Assess the functioning of democracy in contemporary India.
Conclusion
- Summarize the significance of these adjectives in the Preamble.
- Provide a balanced view on their defendability in the present circumstances.
- Conclude with a forward-looking statement on the importance of upholding these values.
Note: Please note that the following ‘answers’ are not ‘model answers’ nor are they synopses in the strictest sense. Instead, they are content designed to meet the demands of the question while providing comprehensive coverage of the topic.
Answer Key
Introduction
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution declares India to be a “Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic.” These adjectives encapsulate the core values and guiding principles of the nation. Each term reflects the aspirations of the founding fathers and continues to shape India’s political and social landscape.
Body
- Sovereign:
- Sovereignty implies that India has the supreme authority to govern itself without external interference. In the present context, India’s sovereignty is evident through its independent foreign policy and robust defense mechanisms.
- For instance, India’s response to border disputes with China and its strategic autonomy in international relations underscore its sovereign status.
- Socialist:
- The term “Socialist” was added by the 42nd Amendment in 1976, emphasizing social and economic equality.
- India’s commitment to socialism is reflected in various welfare schemes like MGNREGA, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, and Ayushman Bharat. However, challenges such as income inequality and unemployment persist, indicating the need for continued efforts.
- Secular:
- Secularism in India means equal treatment of all religions by the state.
- The Supreme Court’s judgment in the Ayodhya case, which balanced the interests of different religious communities, exemplifies India’s secular ethos. Nevertheless, incidents of communal violence and religious intolerance pose challenges to secularism.
- Democratic:
- Democracy ensures that power is vested in the hands of the people through free and fair elections.
- India’s vibrant electoral process, active civil society, and independent judiciary are testaments to its democratic nature.
- For example, the Supreme Court’s intervention in ensuring free and fair elections and the Election Commission’s role in maintaining electoral integrity highlight the strength of India’s democracy. However, issues like electoral malpractices and political polarization need to be addressed to strengthen democracy.
Conclusion
The adjectives “Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic” in the Preamble are fundamental to India’s identity. While they are largely defendable in the present circumstances, ongoing efforts are required to address the challenges and uphold these values. Ensuring the continued relevance of these principles is crucial for India’s progress and unity.