Diversity and Unity in Indian Society
Q.1 (A) Complete the following statements by choosing the correct alternative given in the bracket and rewrite it.
(1) Gender is ___. (innate, genetic, learnt)
Answer: learnt.
(2) “Social disparity encourages ___. (unity, divisiveness, homogeneity)
Answer: divisiveness.
(B) Correct the incorrect pair and rewrite it.
(1) (i) Conflict based on language – Linguism
(ii) Conflict based on religion – Terrorism
(iii) Conflict based on caste – Casteism
(iv) Conflict based on region – Regionalism
Answer:
Incorrect Pair – Conflict based on religion – Terrorism
Correct Pair – Conflict based on religion – Communalism
(C) Identify the appropriate term from the given options in the box and rewrite it against the given statement.
1. It is an achieved status: Class
2. Promotes healthier relationships: Egalitarianism
(D) Correct the underlined words and complete the statement.
(1) Conflict based on caste is called communalism.
Answer: casteism
(2) Sarvadharmasmabhava denotes the Indian concept of unity amidst diversity.
Answer: secularism
Q.2 Write short notes.
(1) Gender Diversity
Answer: Gender diversity refers to the recognition and acceptance of diverse gender identities and expressions beyond the binary of male and female. It encompasses concepts like gender binary, gender expression, sexuality, and sexual orientation, including identities such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT). In India, gender diversity is rooted in cultural traditions, with references to gender-fluid deities in Hinduism. The decriminalization of homosexuality in 2018 and recognition of transgender rights reflect progress. However, societal norms often enforce heteronormativity, marginalizing non-binary individuals. Awareness and sensitivity to gender diversity can dispel myths, reduce discrimination, and promote inclusivity.
(2) Importance of Unity in Diversity
Answer: Unity in diversity signifies the coexistence of diverse groups in India—based on race, religion, language, caste, class, and gender—while fostering a sense of oneness. This unity strengthens India’s cultural heritage, protects human rights, and promotes peaceful coexistence. It enhances workplace morale, facilitates effective communication, and aids conflict resolution. Geographical, religious, political, linguistic, and cultural factors contribute to this unity, as seen in shared festivals like Diwali and harvest celebrations like Pongal. India’s ability to assimilate diverse traditions while maintaining its identity, as noted by scholars like D.P. Singhal, underscores its civilizational strength and resilience.
Q.3 Write differences.
(1) Regionalism and Linguism
Answer:
| Regionalism | Linguism |
| (i) Meaning: Regionalism refers to loyalty to one’s own State or region before one’s nation. | (i) Meaning: Linguism is a form of excess loyalty towards one’s own language. |
| (ii) Causes: Regionalism emerges due to the desire of people speaking one language to have one State. Differences in states and regions create the problem of regionalism. | (ii) Causes: Differences in State and regions creates the problem of regionalism linguism emerges if the minorities begin to feel that their interests are being disregarded and their welfare ignored. |
| (iii) Origin: It was developed by the British government. | (iii) Origin: It develops from the idea of separation and division of people on the basis of language. |
| (iv) Impact: Regionalism is a divisive force that creates disrespect for people from other regions of the same country. | (iv) Impact: Linguism has led to a definite form of linguistic nationalism which can provide enough fuel for separatism in India. |
| (v) Example: Regionalism has led to regional movements for State rights and militant movements for separatism. For example, the Jammu and Kashmir issue, the Punjab problem, Assam issue, etc. | (v) Example: Linguism has led to the unacceptance of Hindi as an official language of the Union across the country. For example, the atrocities committed on linguistic minorities. |
(2) Casteism and Communalism
Answer:
| Casteism | Communalism |
| (i) Meaning: Casteism refers to loyalty to One’s own caste before loyalty to the nation. | (i) Meaning: Communalism refers to loyalty to one’s own religion before the nation. |
| (ii) Manifestations: Caste ties may lead to caste members protecting their own caste group through social service, education, medical and other welfare schemes. | (ii) Manifestations: Religious fundamentalists try to impose their religious practices on others, which leads to communal conflict and antagonism between members of different religious communities. |
| (iii) Effects: Caste conflict has led to caste and Caste prejudices. | (iii) Effects: Religious fundamentalism can lead to, acts of terrorism which can create a fear psychosis in the minds of people. |
| (iv) Impact: Casteism leads to excessive caste-based loyalty, particularly evident at the time of elections. | (iv) Impact: Communal conflict weakens democracy, for example, Mumbai riots, etc. riots during India Pakistan partition. |
Q.4 Explain the following concepts with examples.
(1) Heteronormativity
Answer: Heteronormativity is the societal norm that assumes and reinforces the gender binary (male/female, masculine/feminine) as the standard, marginalizing non-binary or non-heterosexual identities. It influences institutions like family, marriage, and economy, promoting the idea that heterosexual relationships are “normal.” For example, traditional Indian marriage customs often prioritize heterosexual unions, sidelining same-sex or transgender relationships. This norm can lead to discrimination against LGBT individuals, such as social exclusion or lack of legal recognition for same-sex partnerships before the 2018 decriminalization of homosexuality.
(2) Communalism
Answer: Communalism refers to excessive loyalty to one’s religion over national interests, leading to conflicts and divisions. It fosters hatred, insecurity, and economic setbacks due to communal riots. For example, historical religious conflicts between Hindus and Muslims have led to riots, such as those during partition. Politicians may exploit communal sentiments to gain power, projecting one religion against another, which undermines national unity. Religious fundamentalism, like imposing one’s beliefs on others, can escalate into acts of terrorism, creating fear and distrust.
Q.5 (A) Complete the concept map.
Answer:
(B) State whether the following statements are True or False with reasons.
(1) Economic inequality has no effect on society.
Answer: False.
- Reasons: Economic inequality significantly impacts society by creating tensions, limiting access to opportunities, and widening the gap between rich and poor. It influences choices like education and healthcare access, as seen in the disparity between private school education for the wealthy and inadequate anganwadis for the poor. This inequality fosters social unrest and hinders national integration.
(2) Constitutional and legal provisions provide hope to weaker sections in Indian society.
Answer: True.
- Reasons: The Indian Constitution offers affirmative action through reservations for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS). These provisions ensure access to education and employment, uplifting marginalized groups. Special concessions for minorities and welfare schemes further promote inclusivity and social equity.
Q.6 Give your personal response.
(1) How can participation in sports foster national integration?
Answer: Sports can foster national integration by bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds—regardless of caste, religion, language, or region—to work as a team toward a common goal. National events like the Indian Premier League (IPL) or Olympic contingents showcase players from various states, promoting camaraderie and mutual respect. For instance, when athletes from rural and urban areas compete together, they bridge cultural gaps, fostering a sense of shared identity and pride in representing India.
(2) What is the significance of school uniforms in Indian schools, with regard to the value of unity?
Answer: School uniforms in Indian schools symbolize equality and unity by eliminating visible distinctions based on economic class, caste, or religion. They create a sense of belonging among students, fostering a shared identity. For example, students from diverse backgrounds wearing the same uniform during school events like Republic Day celebrations feel united as part of a single community, reducing social barriers and promoting inclusivity.
Q.7 Answer the following question in detail. (About 150-200 words)
What does unity mean to you? Discuss any three factors which hinder unity. Describe two ways in which tribal and urban people can benefit each other to promote unity. Give examples to illustrate your points.
Answer: Unity, to me, means a sense of oneness and mutual respect among diverse groups, fostering a collective identity despite differences in caste, religion, language, or region. It is about embracing India’s pluralistic heritage while working together for shared prosperity.
Three factors that hinder unity are:
- Casteism: Loyalty to one’s caste over the nation leads to discrimination and vote-bank politics, as seen in caste-based atrocities reported in rural areas.
- Communalism: Religious conflicts, like communal riots, create distrust and weaken national solidarity.
- Economic Inequalities: The gap between rich and poor, evident in urban “mall culture” versus rural poverty, fosters social tension.
Check your progress
Page No. 56
1. Identify two Constitutional provisions to protect weaker sections in Indian society.
Answer:
- Affirmative Action through Reservations: The Indian Constitution provides reservations in education and employment for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS). For example, 15% of seats are reserved for SCs, 7.5% for STs, and 27% for OBCs in government-run institutions.
- Special Concessions for Weaker Sections: The Constitution grants special concessions for the amelioration of SCs, STs, Denotified Tribes, OBCs, and religious, linguistic, and sexual minorities, ensuring their social and economic upliftment through welfare schemes and protective measures.
2. What do you understand by threelanguage formula?
Answer: The Three-Language Formula (TLF), devised in 1961 and recommended by the Kothari Commission (1964-66), is a policy to promote linguistic unity in India. It mandates that students learn three languages:
- First Language: The regional language or mother tongue (home language).
- Second Language: English or a modern Indian language (Hindi in Hindi-speaking states; Hindi or English in non-Hindi-speaking states).
- Third Language: English or a modern Indian language not studied as the second language.
This formula aims to connect students with their state, the nation (via Hindi/English), and the global world (via English), fostering linguistic diversity and national integration. Most Indian states have implemented it, though challenges remain.
3. Identify three factors that hinder national unity.
Answer:
- Casteism: Loyalty to one’s caste over the nation leads to discrimination, social exclusion, and political manipulation, as seen in caste-based atrocities and vote-bank politics.
- Communalism: Excessive loyalty to one’s religion fosters conflicts, hatred, and distrust, weakening democracy through communal riots and religious fundamentalism.
- Regionalism: Prioritizing one’s state or region over the nation fuels inter-state rivalries and separatist movements, such as the Jammu and Kashmir or Punjab issues, undermining national solidarity.
Leave a Reply