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Indian Democracy: A Reflection of Aspirations and Achievements | Essay Writing for UPSC by Vikash Ranjan Sir | Triumph ias

Table of Contents

Indian Democracy: A Voyage of Aspirations and Triumphs

(relevant for essay writing for upsc civil services examination).

Indian Democracy, Aspirations, Achievements, Inclusivity, Transparency, Sustainable Development, Universal Adult Franchise, Economic Progress, Political Polarization, Social Inequalities

Indian Democracy is a vibrant, complex tapestry that reflects the diverse aspirations of its people. This post explores the achievements that have marked this democratic journey and the aspirations that continue to shape its path.

Aspirations: A Beacon for Democracy

Indian Democracy’s aspirations are a guiding light, reflecting the dreams of inclusivity, transparency, and sustainable development.

Achievements: Milestones Along the Way

From universal adult suffrage to remarkable economic growth, Indian Democracy’s achievements are many. They stand as testament to the nation’s commitment to its democratic principles.

Challenges: The Road Ahead

Despite its triumphs, Indian Democracy faces challenges. Political, social, and economic disparities continue to be areas of concern.

Conclusion: Democracy’s Ongoing Journey

Indian Democracy is an evolving journey of aspirations and achievements. Embracing its triumphs and addressing its challenges, India marches forward in its democratic voyage.

To master these intricacies and fare well in the Sociology Optional Syllabus , aspiring sociologists might benefit from guidance by the Best Sociology Optional Teacher and participation in the Best Sociology Optional Coaching . These avenues provide comprehensive assistance, ensuring a solid understanding of sociology’s diverse methodologies and techniques

Indian Democracy, Aspirations, Achievements, Inclusivity, Transparency, Sustainable Development, Universal Adult Franchise, Economic Progress, Political Polarization, Social Inequalities.

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Instructional Format:

  • Each class session is scheduled for a duration of two hours.
  • At the conclusion of each lecture, an assignment will be distributed by Vikash Ranjan Sir for Paper-I & Paper-II coverage.

Study Material:

  • A set of printed booklets will be provided for each topic. These materials are succinct, thoroughly updated, and tailored for examination preparation.
  • A compilation of previous years’ question papers (spanning the last 27 years) will be supplied for answer writing practice.
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Syllabus of Sociology Optional

FUNDAMENTALS OF SOCIOLOGY

  • Modernity and social changes in Europe and emergence of sociology.
  • Scope of the subject and comparison with other social sciences.
  • Sociology and common sense.
  • Science, scientific method and critique.
  • Major theoretical strands of research methodology.
  • Positivism and its critique.
  • Fact value and objectivity.
  • Non- positivist methodologies.
  • Qualitative and quantitative methods.
  • Techniques of data collection.
  • Variables, sampling, hypothesis, reliability and validity.
  • Karl Marx- Historical materialism, mode of production, alienation, class struggle.
  • Emile Durkheim- Division of labour, social fact, suicide, religion and society.
  • Max Weber- Social action, ideal types, authority, bureaucracy, protestant ethic and the spirit of capitalism.
  • Talcott Parsons- Social system, pattern variables.
  • Robert K. Merton- Latent and manifest functions, conformity and deviance, reference groups.
  • Mead – Self and identity.
  • Concepts- equality, inequality, hierarchy, exclusion, poverty and deprivation.
  • Theories of social stratification- Structural functionalist theory, Marxist theory, Weberian theory.
  • Dimensions – Social stratification of class, status groups, gender, ethnicity and race.
  • Social mobility- open and closed systems, types of mobility, sources and causes of mobility.
  • Social organization of work in different types of society- slave society, feudal society, industrial /capitalist society
  • Formal and informal organization of work.
  • Labour and society.
  • Sociological theories of power.
  • Power elite, bureaucracy, pressure groups, and political parties.
  • Nation, state, citizenship, democracy, civil society, ideology.
  • Protest, agitation, social movements, collective action, revolution.
  • Sociological theories of religion.
  • Types of religious practices: animism, monism, pluralism, sects, cults.
  • Religion in modern society: religion and science, secularization, religious revivalism, fundamentalism.
  • Family, household, marriage.
  • Types and forms of family.
  • Lineage and descent.
  • Patriarchy and sexual division of labour.
  • Contemporary trends.
  • Sociological theories of social change.
  • Development and dependency.
  • Agents of social change.
  • Education and social change.
  • Science, technology and social change.

INDIAN SOCIETY: STRUCTURE AND CHANGE

Introducing indian society.

  • Indology (GS. Ghurye).
  • Structural functionalism (M N Srinivas).
  • Marxist sociology (A R Desai).
  • Social background of Indian nationalism.
  • Modernization of Indian tradition.
  • Protests and movements during the colonial period.
  • Social reforms.

SOCIAL STRUCTURE

  • The idea of Indian village and village studies.
  • Agrarian social structure – evolution of land tenure system, land reforms.
  • Perspectives on the study of caste systems: GS Ghurye, M N Srinivas, Louis Dumont, Andre Beteille.
  • Features of caste system.
  • Untouchability – forms and perspectives.
  • Definitional problems.
  • Geographical spread.
  • Colonial policies and tribes.
  • Issues of integration and autonomy.
  • Social Classes in India:
  • Agrarian class structure.
  • Industrial class structure.
  • Middle classes in India.
  • Lineage and descent in India.
  • Types of kinship systems.
  • Family and marriage in India.
  • Household dimensions of the family.
  • Patriarchy, entitlements and sexual division of labour
  • Religious communities in India.
  • Problems of religious minorities.

SOCIAL CHANGES IN INDIA

  • Idea of development planning and mixed economy
  • Constitution, law and social change.
  • Programmes of rural development, Community Development Programme, cooperatives,poverty alleviation schemes
  • Green revolution and social change.
  • Changing modes of production in Indian agriculture.
  • Problems of rural labour, bondage, migration.

3. Industrialization and Urbanisation in India:

  • Evolution of modern industry in India.
  • Growth of urban settlements in India.
  • Working class: structure, growth, class mobilization.
  • Informal sector, child labour
  • Slums and deprivation in urban areas.

4. Politics and Society:

  • Nation, democracy and citizenship.
  • Political parties, pressure groups , social and political elite
  • Regionalism and decentralization of power.
  • Secularization

5. Social Movements in Modern India:

  • Peasants and farmers movements.
  • Women’s movement.
  • Backward classes & Dalit movement.
  • Environmental movements.
  • Ethnicity and Identity movements.

6. Population Dynamics:

  • Population size, growth, composition and distribution
  • Components of population growth: birth, death, migration.
  • Population policy and family planning.
  • Emerging issues: ageing, sex ratios, child and infant mortality, reproductive health.

7. Challenges of Social Transformation:

  • Crisis of development: displacement, environmental problems and sustainability
  • Poverty, deprivation and inequalities.
  • Violence against women.
  • Caste conflicts.
  • Ethnic conflicts, communalism, religious revivalism.
  • Illiteracy and disparities in education.

Best Sociology Optional Coaching, Sociology Optional Syllabus, BEST SOCIOLOGY OPTIONAL TEACHER, SOCIOLOGY OPTIONAL TEACHER

Mr. Vikash Ranjan, arguably the Best Sociology Optional Teacher , has emerged as a versatile genius in teaching and writing books on Sociology & General Studies. His approach to the Sociology Optional Syllabus / Sociology Syllabus is remarkable, and his Sociological Themes and Perspectives are excellent. His teaching aptitude is Simple, Easy and Exam Focused. He is often chosen as the Best Sociology Teacher for Sociology Optional UPSC aspirants.

About Triumph IAS

Innovating Knowledge, Inspiring Success We, at Triumph IAS , pride ourselves on being the best sociology optional coaching platform. We believe that each Individual Aspirant is unique and requires Individual Guidance and Care, hence the need for the Best Sociology Teacher . We prepare students keeping in mind his or her strength and weakness, paying particular attention to the Sociology Optional Syllabus / Sociology Syllabus , which forms a significant part of our Sociology Foundation Course .

Course Features

Every day, the Best Sociology Optional Teacher spends 2 hours with the students, covering each aspect of the Sociology Optional Syllabus / Sociology Syllabus and the Sociology Course . Students are given assignments related to the Topic based on Previous Year Question to ensure they’re ready for the Sociology Optional UPSC examination.

Regular one-on-one interaction & individual counseling for stress management and refinement of strategy for Exam by Vikash Ranjan Sir , the Best Sociology Teacher , is part of the package. We specialize in sociology optional coaching and are hence fully equipped to guide you to your dream space in the civil service final list.

Specialist Guidance of Vikash Ranjan Sir

essay on democracy in india upsc

The Best Sociology Teacher helps students to get a complete conceptual understanding of each and every topic of the Sociology Optional Syllabus / Sociology Syllabus , enabling them to attempt any of the questions, be direct or applied, ensuring 300+ Marks in Sociology Optional .

Classrooms Interaction & Participatory Discussion

The Best Sociology Teacher, Vikash Sir , ensures that there’s explanation & DISCUSSION on every topic of the Sociology Optional Syllabus / Sociology Syllabus in the class. The emphasis is not just on teaching but also on understanding, which is why we are known as the Best Sociology Optional Coaching institution.

Preparatory-Study Support

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Online Support System (Oss)

Get access to an online forum for value addition study material, journals, and articles relevant to Sociology on www.triumphias.com . Ask preparation related queries directly to the Best Sociology Teacher , Vikash Sir, via mail or WhatsApp.

Strategic Classroom Preparation

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Comprehensive Study Material

We provide printed booklets of concise, well-researched, exam-ready study material for every unit of the Sociology Optional Syllabus / Sociology Syllabus , making us the Best Sociology Optional Coaching platform.

Why Vikash Ranjan’s Classes for Sociology?

Proper guidance and assistance are required to learn the skill of interlinking current happenings with the conventional topics. VIKASH RANJAN SIR at TRIUMPH IAS guides students according to the Recent Trends of UPSC, making him the Best Sociology Teacher for Sociology Optional UPSC.

At Triumph IAS, the Best Sociology Optional Coaching platform, we not only provide the best study material and applied classes for Sociology for IAS but also conduct regular assignments and class tests to assess candidates’ writing skills and understanding of the subject.

Choose T he Best Sociology Optional Teacher for IAS Preparation?

At the beginning of the journey for Civil Services Examination preparation, many students face a pivotal decision – selecting their optional subject. Questions such as “ which optional subject is the best? ” and “ which optional subject is the most scoring? ” frequently come to mind. Choosing the right optional subject, like choosing the best sociology optional teacher , is a subjective yet vital step that requires a thoughtful decision based on facts. A misstep in this crucial decision can indeed prove disastrous.

Ever since the exam pattern was revamped in 2013, the UPSC has eliminated the need for a second optional subject. Now, candidates have to choose only one optional subject for the UPSC Mains , which has two papers of 250 marks each. One of the compelling choices for many has been the sociology optional. However, it’s strongly advised to decide on your optional subject for mains well ahead of time to get sufficient time to complete the syllabus. After all, most students score similarly in General Studies Papers; it’s the score in the optional subject & essay that contributes significantly to the final selection.

“ A sound strategy does not rely solely on the popular Opinion of toppers or famous YouTubers cum teachers. ”

It requires understanding one’s ability, interest, and the relevance of the subject, not just for the exam but also for life in general. Hence, when selecting the best sociology teacher, one must consider the usefulness of sociology optional coaching in General Studies, Essay, and Personality Test.

The choice of the optional subject should be based on objective criteria, such as the nature, scope, and size of the syllabus, uniformity and stability in the question pattern, relevance of the syllabic content in daily life in society, and the availability of study material and guidance. For example, choosing the best sociology optional coaching can ensure access to top-quality study materials and experienced teachers. Always remember, the approach of the UPSC optional subject differs from your academic studies of subjects. Therefore, before settling for sociology optional , you need to analyze the syllabus, previous years’ pattern, subject requirements (be it ideal, visionary, numerical, conceptual theoretical), and your comfort level with the subject.

This decision marks a critical point in your UPSC – CSE journey , potentially determining your success in a career in IAS/Civil Services. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose wisely, whether it’s the optional subject or the best sociology optional teacher . Always base your decision on accurate facts, and never let your emotional biases guide your choices. After all, the search for the best sociology optional coaching is about finding the perfect fit for your unique academic needs and aspirations.

To master these intricacies and fare well in the Sociology Optional Syllabus , aspiring sociologists might benefit from guidance by the Best Sociology Optional Teacher and participation in the Best Sociology Optional Coaching . These avenues provide comprehensive assistance, ensuring a solid understanding of sociology’s diverse methodologies and techniques. Sociology, Social theory, Best Sociology Optional Teacher, Best Sociology Optional Coaching, Sociology Optional Syllabus. Best Sociology Optional Teacher, Sociology Syllabus, Sociology Optional, Sociology Optional Coaching, Best Sociology Optional Coaching, Best Sociology Teacher, Sociology Course, Sociology Teacher, Sociology Foundation, Sociology Foundation Course, Sociology Optional UPSC, Sociology for IAS,

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essay on democracy in india upsc

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Essay on Democracy in 100, 300 and 500 Words

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  • Updated on  
  • Jan 15, 2024

Essay on Democracy

The oldest account of democracy can be traced back to 508–507 BCC Athens . Today there are over 50 different types of democracy across the world. But, what is the ideal form of democracy? Why is democracy considered the epitome of freedom and rights around the globe? Let’s explore what self-governance is and how you can write a creative and informative essay on democracy and its significance. 

Today, India is the largest democracy with a population of 1.41 billion and counting. Everyone in India above the age of 18 is given the right to vote and elect their representative. Isn’t it beautiful, when people are given the option to vote for their leader, one that understands their problems and promises to end their miseries? This is just one feature of democracy , for we have a lot of samples for you in the essay on democracy. Stay tuned!

Can you answer these questions in under 5 minutes? Take the Ultimate GK Quiz to find out!

This Blog Includes:

What is democracy , sample essay on democracy (100 words), sample essay on democracy (250 to 300 words), sample essay on democracy for upsc (500 words).

Democracy is a form of government in which the final authority to deliberate and decide the legislation for the country lies with the people, either directly or through representatives. Within a democracy, the method of decision-making, and the demarcation of citizens vary among countries. However, some fundamental principles of democracy include the rule of law, inclusivity, political deliberations, voting via elections , etc. 

Did you know: On 15th August 1947, India became the world’s largest democracy after adopting the Indian Constitution and granting fundamental rights to its citizens?

Must Explore: Human Rights Courses for Students 

Must Explore: NCERT Notes on Separation of Powers in a Democracy

Democracy where people make decisions for the country is the only known form of governance in the world that promises to inculcate principles of equality, liberty and justice. The deliberations and negotiations to form policies and make decisions for the country are the basis on which the government works, with supreme power to people to choose their representatives, delegate the country’s matters and express their dissent. The democratic system is usually of two types, the presidential system, and the parliamentary system. In India, the three pillars of democracy, namely legislature, executive and judiciary, working independently and still interconnected, along with a free press and media provide a structure for a truly functional democracy. Despite the longest-written constitution incorporating values of sovereignty, socialism, secularism etc. India, like other countries, still faces challenges like corruption, bigotry, and oppression of certain communities and thus, struggles to stay true to its democratic ideals.

essay on democracy

Did you know: Some of the richest countries in the world are democracies?

Must Read : Consumer Rights in India

Must Read: Democracy and Diversity Class 10

As Abraham Lincoln once said, “democracy is the government of the people, by the people and for the people.” There is undeniably no doubt that the core of democracies lies in making people the ultimate decision-makers. With time, the simple definition of democracy has evolved to include other principles like equality, political accountability, rights of the citizens and to an extent, values of liberty and justice. Across the globe, representative democracies are widely prevalent, however, there is a major variation in how democracies are practised. The major two types of representative democracy are presidential and parliamentary forms of democracy. Moreover, not all those who present themselves as a democratic republic follow its values.

Many countries have legally deprived some communities of living with dignity and protecting their liberty, or are practising authoritarian rule through majoritarianism or populist leaders. Despite this, one of the things that are central and basic to all is the practice of elections and voting. However, even in such a case, the principles of universal adult franchise and the practice of free and fair elections are theoretically essential but very limited in practice, for a democracy. Unlike several other nations, India is still, at least constitutionally and principally, a practitioner of an ideal democracy.

With our three organs of the government, namely legislative, executive and judiciary, the constitutional rights to citizens, a multiparty system, laws to curb discrimination and spread the virtues of equality, protection to minorities, and a space for people to discuss, debate and dissent, India has shown a commitment towards democratic values. In recent times, with challenges to freedom of speech, rights of minority groups and a conundrum between the protection of diversity and unification of the country, the debate about the preservation of democracy has become vital to public discussion.

democracy essay

Did you know: In countries like Brazil, Scotland, Switzerland, Argentina, and Austria the minimum voting age is 16 years?

Also Read: Difference Between Democracy and Dictatorship

Democracy originated from the Greek word dēmokratiā , with dēmos ‘people’ and Kratos ‘rule.’ For the first time, the term appeared in the 5th century BC to denote the political systems then existing in Greek city-states, notably Classical Athens, to mean “rule of the people.” It now refers to a form of governance where the people have the right to participate in the decision-making of the country. Majorly, it is either a direct democracy where citizens deliberate and make legislation while in a representative democracy, they choose government officials on their behalf, like in a parliamentary or presidential democracy.

The presidential system (like in the USA) has the President as the head of the country and the government, while the parliamentary system (like in the UK and India) has both a Prime Minister who derives its legitimacy from a parliament and even a nominal head like a monarch or a President.

The notions and principle frameworks of democracy have evolved with time. At the core, lies the idea of political discussions and negotiations. In contrast to its alternatives like monarchy, anarchy, oligarchy etc., it is the one with the most liberty to incorporate diversity. The ideas of equality, political representation to all, active public participation, the inclusion of dissent, and most importantly, the authority to the law by all make it an attractive option for citizens to prefer, and countries to follow.

The largest democracy in the world, India with the lengthiest constitution has tried and to an extent, successfully achieved incorporating the framework to be a functional democracy. It is a parliamentary democratic republic where the President is head of the state and the Prime minister is head of the government. It works on the functioning of three bodies, namely legislative, executive, and judiciary. By including the principles of a sovereign, socialist, secular and democratic republic, and undertaking the guidelines to establish equality, liberty and justice, in the preamble itself, India shows true dedication to achieving the ideal.

It has formed a structure that allows people to enjoy their rights, fight against discrimination or any other form of suppression, and protect their rights as well. The ban on all and any form of discrimination, an independent judiciary, governmental accountability to its citizens, freedom of media and press, and secular values are some common values shared by all types of democracies.

Across the world, countries have tried rooting their constitution with the principles of democracy. However, the reality is different. Even though elections are conducted everywhere, mostly, they lack freedom of choice and fairness. Even in the world’s greatest democracies, there are challenges like political instability, suppression of dissent, corruption , and power dynamics polluting the political sphere and making it unjust for the citizens. Despite the consensus on democracy as the best form of government, the journey to achieve true democracy is both painstaking and tiresome. 

Difference-between-Democracy-and-Dictatorship

Did you know: Countries like Singapore, Peru, and Brazil have compulsory voting?

Must Read: Democracy and Diversity Class 10 Notes

Democracy is a process through which the government of a country is elected by and for the people.

Yes, India is a democratic country and also holds the title of the world’s largest democracy.

Direct and Representative Democracy are the two major types of Democracy.

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Essay on Democracy in India for Students | 500+ Words Essay

December 20, 2020 by Sandeep

Essay on Democracy in India: India is the world’s largest democracy. Our country is a secular, democratic republic, and the President is the head of state, and the Prime minister is the head of the government. Citizens elect their leaders by casting votes. The candidate with a majority of votes wins the election and gets into power. India’s five democratic principles are sovereignty, socialism, secularism, democracy and republic establishment.

Essay on Democracy in India 500 Words in English

Below we have provided Democracy in India Essay in English, suitable for class 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 school students.

As quoted by Abraham Lincoln, “Democracy” is the government of the people, by the people and for the people. In other words, the absolute power to elect their representatives lies with the people who form the electorate. So, the power resides within the people and is expressed by their opinion and will. This kind of democracy, which is democratic, is most fitting in modern times. India is the world’s biggest democracy, with a population of more than a billion. India, a union of nations, is a republic with democratic capitalism, secularism, democracy and a parliamentary system of government. The republic is governed by the constitution, adopted on 26 November 1949 and put into effect on 26 January 1950.

Indian democracy has foundations which are very deep and solid. Our leaders like Mahatma Gandhi , Dr Rajendra Prasad, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru , Lal Bahadur Shastri, and Indira Gandhi, etc., rightly hold the credit for this robust democratic base. Their contributions to Indian democracy’s progress have been incalculable. Our constitution has ensured that democracy is practised in India in its purest form since independence. The greatest of all the powers bestowed on people is their right to vote and to preserve a free democratic establishment in India. Not only that, but India’s system of democracy also gives every citizen the right to form a political party and take part in elections. As you can see, India’s democracy targets ordinary people more than its ruling party.

Types of Democracy in India

There are necessarily two types of Political system that are implemented around the world. The same also holds inside our country. These two forms of systems of democracy are direct democracy and indirect democracy.

Direct Democracy: Citizens engage directly in the process of choosing their representatives in this sort of scheme. They are, in fact, physically present in the whole cycle and collectively announce their leader’s name. As you can see, in the case of a large population, such an approach is not feasible. This is why, over the years, direct democracy in India has vanished. It is practised only in small villages and panchayat, if at all.

Indirect Democracy: India’s indirect democracy is the country’s most common option for forming the government. In this system, the nation’s people engage indirectly in the process of choosing their representatives, instead of being directly involved. Indirect democracy in India is best practised by giving the votes during the election. The political parties, in the case of indirect democracy, choose a few of their worthiest leaders and make them stand up and fight in the elections. The public at large gets to vote for their favourite elected official. The one who gets the highest votes in the respective region is the ruling minister.

Importance of Democracy in Indian Politics

Indian democratic government is represented through the peaceful combination of different beliefs and thoughts. There are strong cooperation and competition between various political organizations. Since the poll is the democratic system route, various political organizations exist, and each organization has its own agenda and thoughts. With so much ethnic and religious diversity, India’s democracy safeguards people from unwarranted prejudices and favouritism.

In India, democracy gives all equal rights and equality irrespective of their views and living standards. The expected caste and scheduled tribes in our country had since ages been thrown out of the main society. In India, democracy ensures that they get as many resources and support from us as everyone else does to develop and make progress in life.

Effects of Democracy

Democracy has its own share of benefits as well as inconveniences for the country’s ordinary people. Firstly, it is instrumental in defending citizens ‘rights and giving them the right to choose their government. Furthermore, it does not require a monocratic rule to crop us as all leaders realize that they do need to perform in case they want the people to nominate them during the next election. Therefore, they can’t believe they’ve powers forever. Providing all people with the right to vote gives them a sense of dignity irrespective of caste, class, religion or financial status.

ForumIAS Blog

Democracy is derived from two Greek words “demos” meaning people and “kratos” meaning rule. Democracy is a system of government where the supreme power is vested in the people.

The people have the right to choose their representatives and take part in the decision-making process. The government protects the individual rights and is accountable to the people.

Democracy upholds the principles of equality, freedom, fraternity, human rights, individual autonomy and justice.

Besides being a political system, democracy also promotes social, economic and cultural aspects of the society. Democracy aims to ensure equal rights and opportunities to all its citizens to achieve their full potential.

  • 1 Democracy: A philosophical perspective
  • 2 Democracy: Evolution
  • 3 Democracy: Types
  • 4 Democracy: Indian context
  • 5 Democracy: Challenges
  • 6 Democracy: The best form of government
  • 7 Democracy: Supreme Court Judgements

Democracy: A philosophical perspective

Democracy believes in the inherent worth of every individual and upholds their dignity of life. It enables the citizens to participate in the decisions which determine their life and livelihood.

First philosophical principle underlying democracy is the social contract theory, where individuals give up their rights in a voluntary manner in exchange for the protection provided by government.

John Locke, Father of Modern Democracy said, “The people cannot delegate to government the power to do anything which would be unlawful for them to do themselves.”

Concept of common good is another underlying principle, individual well-being flows from the well-being of the whole society. This results into functioning of  a just and equitable society.

Democracy: Evolution

  • Athens, a city-state in ancient Greece started a system of direct democracy. A small group of male citizens voted directly on the laws.
  • Magna Carta of 1215 signed in England laid foundation to modern day representative democracy.
  • Constitution of 1787, United States established a federal system of government with emphasis on separation of powers.
  • Bolshevik revolution of 1917, Russia formed the first communist government based on the principle collective community ownership of resources.
  • End of World War-II in 1945, decolonized many parts of the world which pursued democracy as a form of government.
  • Fall of Berlin Wall and collapse of Soviet Union in 1990, spread the idea of democracy to formerly authoritarian states.
  • Arab Spring in 2010, called for greater political and social autonomy and established democratic governments.
  • Rise of social movements, civil rights movements and quest for economic justice continues to evolve the idea of democracy.

Democracy: Types

Factors such as population size, cultural diversity, political culture and history of the country often determine the choice of democratic system.

  • Direct Democracy: Citizens directly vote on laws and participate in public affairs. For example, City-States of Ancient Greece.
  • Representative Democracy: Citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. It is of two kinds- Parliamentary and Presidential Democracy. For example, India, United States, France.
  • Presidential Democracy: President is the head of the state and head of the government and is directly elected by the people. Strict separation of powers between executive and legislature. For example, United States.
  • Parliamentary Democracy: Head of the government is elected by the people and head of the state is a ceremonial figure. Executive is accountable to legislature. For example, India.
  • Consensus Democracy: Decision making is made through consensus among all members of governing body instead of majority vote. For example, Swiss Cantons.
  • Semi-Direct Democracy: A greater degree of people participation through plebiscites, initiatives, referendums than in representative democracy. For examples, Liechtenstein

Democracy: Indian context

With 1.3 billion population, India is the world’s largest democracy. Indian Constitution follows a Parliamentary form of Democracy with executive being accountable to legislature.

Characteristics features of Indian democracy are-

  • Popular Sovereignty: Asserts that people are the ultimate source of authority which is reflected in the Preamble, ‘ We, the people of India’.
  • Universal Adult Suffrage: All the citizens above 18 years old are eligible to elect their representatives, reflects inherent worth of every individual.
  • Rule of law: Notion that no one is above law and all are subject to the same law.
  • Separation of power: Ensures checks and balances between various organs of the government and prevent abuse of power.
  • Independent Judiciary: Upholds rule of law and protects individual rights.
  • Free and Fair elections: Independent constitutional body carries out elections in a free, fair and transparent manner.
  • Multi-Party System: Reflects the diverse opinions, ideologies and voices and ensures a thriving democracy.
  • Secularism: State maintains principled distance from all the religions this fostering harmony in the society.
  • Free Press: A fundamental right under Article 19 ensures free flow of information to the public.
  • Independent Civil Society: Pressure groups, civil society organisations, NGOs promote social justice and human rights.

Democracy: Challenges

  • Political instability: Frequent elections and incongruent political ideologies lead to unstable and weak governments.
  • Crony Capitalism: Erodes public trust and undermines rule of law and propagates politico-administrative nexus.
  • Delay in decision making: Democratic processes need consensus building and compromise which is a slow process.
  • Populism: Representatives cater to their short term political goal and may not take decisions based on the needs of the people.
  • Backsliding on minority rights: As decision making is based on majority, it may create a sense of disengagement and apathy towards minority sections.
  • Downward spiral of Media: Easier manipulation of news, spread of misinformation and fake news undermine public trust.
  • Lobbying: Undue influence on political parties by powerful groups to benefit a select few.

Democracy: The best form of government

Charles Bukowski said, “The difference between a democracy and a dictatorship is that in a democracy you vote first and take orders later; in a dictatorship you don’t have to waste your time voting.”

  • Individual rights: Protects basic rights and ensures individual autonomy. Fundamental rights are granted by the constitution and guarded by the independent judiciary.
  • Representative and Participative: Citizens have the opportunity to elect their leaders and participate in decision making.
  • Accountability: Mechanism to hold executive accountable to their actions by the legislature.
  • Multiple Stakeholders: CSOs, NGOs and media are vigilant and promote transparency in a democracy.
  • Peaceful Transfer of Power: Inherently ensures stability and avoids violence in comparison to monarchy.
  • Dissent: Citizens voice their concerns through democratic process to protect their individual autonomy.

Democracy: Supreme Court Judgements

  • Keshavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973): Propounded Basic Structure doctrine which upheld important features of democracy such as separation of powers, federalism, and judicial review.
  • S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994): Only when central government has compelling reasons it can dismiss a state government, upholding quasi-federal nature of Indian democracy.
  • Indira Nehru Gandhi v. Raj Narain (1975): Reiterated the basic principle of democracy which is rule of law. As a result election of Prime Minister to the office has been challenged.
  • Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978): Ruled that the right to personal liberty and due process of law are fundamental rights.
  • Justice K. S. Puttaswamy (Retd.) v. Union Of India (2017): Ruled that the right to privacy is a fundamental right which emphasizes on dignity of life of every individual.

Ensuring strong democratic processes and institutions to enjoy the public trust , promoting social and economic justice, combating corruption, encouraging participation of multiple stakeholders can improve the quality of democratic governance.

Related articles:

1. India, democracy and the promised republic

2 .Democracy and its structural slippages

3. Preserving democracy in India

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Essay on Democracy in India for Students and Children

500+ words essay on democracy in india.

Essay on Democracy in India – First of all, democracy refers to a system of government where the citizens exercise power by voting. Democracy holds a special place in India. Furthermore, India without a doubt is the biggest democracy in the world. Also, the democracy of India is derived from the constitution of India. After suffering at the hands of British colonial rule, India finally became a democratic nation in 1947 . Most noteworthy, Indian democracy since independence is infused with the spirit of justice, liberty, and equality.

essay on democracy in india upsc

Features of Indian Democracy

Sovereignty is a vital feature of Indian democracy. Sovereignty refers to the full power of a governing body over itself without outside interference. Moreover, people can exercise power in Indian democracy . Most noteworthy, people of India elect their representatives. Moreover, these representatives remain responsible for common people.

The democracy in India works on the principle of political equality. Furthermore, it essentially means all citizens are equal before the law. Most noteworthy, there is no discrimination on the basis of religion , caste, creed, race, sect, etc. Hence, every Indian citizen enjoys equal political rights.

Rule of the majority is an essential feature of Indian democracy. Moreover, the party which wins the most seats forms and runs the government. Most noteworthy, no-one can object to support of the majority.

essay on democracy in india upsc

Another feature of Indian democracy is federal. Most noteworthy, India is a union of states. Furthermore, the states are somewhat autonomous. Moreover, the states enjoy freedom in certain matters.

Collective responsibility is a notable feature of Indian democracy. The council of Ministers in India is collectively responsible to their respective legislatures. Therefore, no minister alone is responsible for any act of their government.

Indian democracy works on the principle of formation of opinion. Furthermore, the government and its institutions must work on the basis of public opinion. Most noteworthy, public opinion must be formed on various matters in India. Moreover, the Legislature of India provides an appropriate platform to express public opinion.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Ways to Strengthen Democracy in India

First of all, people must stop having a blind belief in the media. Many times the news reported by media is out of context and exaggerated. Most noteworthy, some media outlets may propagate the propaganda of a particular political party. Therefore, people must be careful and cautious when accepting media news.

Another important way to strengthen the Indian democracy is to reject the consumer mentality in elections. Several Indians view national elections like consumers buying a product. Most noteworthy, elections should make Indians feel like participants rather than separatists.

People in India should make their voices heard. Furthermore, people must try to communicate with their elected official all year-round instead of just during elections. Therefore, citizens must write, call, email, or attend community forums to communicate with their elected official. This would surely strengthen Indian democracy.

Huge voter turnouts is really an efficient way to strengthen democracy in India. People must avoid hesitation and come out to vote. Most noteworthy, large voter turnout would signify a substantial involvement of the common people in Indian politics.

In conclusion, the democracy in India is something very precious. Furthermore, it is a gift of the patriotic national leaders to the citizens of India. Most noteworthy, the citizens of this country must realize and appreciate the great value of democracy. The democracy in India is certainly unique in the world.

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  • PMO & Cabinet Secretariat: Function & Role in Indian Governance
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  • Preamble of Indian Constitution: Guiding Principles, Evolution, Controversies & Modern Relevance
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  • Schedules of Indian Constitution: 12 Schedules, Governance & Democracy
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  • Evolution of Colonial Governance: Regulating Act 1773 to Charter Act 1793
  • Indian Constitution: Democracy, Rights & Diversity
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  • Constituent Assembly of India: Democracy, Overcoming Critiques & Building a Lasting Legacy
  • Constitution of India: Sovereignty, Republicanism & Shaping Democracy
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  • Indian Constitution: Evolution, Features and Making of a Democratic Framework
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  • Union and Territory: A Detailed UPSC Study on Articles 1-4 of the Indian Constitution
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  • Fundamental Rights (Article 12-35) and Their Evolution in India
  • Directive Principles of State Policy: Significance, Classification and Impact on Social Welfare Laws
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  • Hague Code of Conduct (HCoC)
  • United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)

INDIAN ECONOMY

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  • Indian Economy: Evolution, Colonial Era to Present Day & Future Prospects
  • Basics of Money: Exploring the Fundamentals of Indian Economy
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  • Economic Planning in India: Evolution, Challenges, and Transformative Initiatives
  • Economic Indicators: Definition, Methodology, and Key Insights into GDP (Gross Domestic Product), Unemployment, & Inflation
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  • Inclusive Growth: Definition, Strategies, Policy & Challenges
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  • Importance Of Forest: Guardians Of Biodiversity And Life’s Essentials
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  • Tropical Rainforest: Nature’s Green Treasure & Economic Significance
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  • Pollution: Types and Impact on Health, E-Waste and Bioremediation
  • Environmental Laws in India: Definition, Legal Frameworks & Protection to Biodiversity
  • Environmental Organizations In India: Biodiversity, Conservation, Welfare
  • Wildlife Conservation in India: Initiatives, Achievements & Future
  • Conservation Measures: Modes, Protected Areas, Action Plans, and Initiatives
  • Environmental Conventions and Protocols: Features, Importance, and Implementation
  • Climate Change & Mitigation Strategies: Global Warming, Greenhouse Gases
  • Climate Change Organizations: Exploring Global Initiatives for Environmental Sustainability
  • Climate Change In India: Actions, Policies, and Initiatives
  • INTERNAL SECURITY
  • Internal Security Of India: Challenges, Solutions & Hybrid Warfare
  • Communal Violence: Causes, Legal Provisions, and Preventive Measures
  • Terrorism And Extremism: Types, Spread. Steps Taken
  • Organised Crime And Terrorism: Aspects, Fctors, Challenges
  • The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) 1958: Origin, Current Status
  • Left Wing Extremism or Naxalism: Origin, Background, Major Issues
  • Extremism And Development: Linkages, Causes, Solutions, and Countermeasures
  • Militancy In Jammu And Kashmir: Background, Human Right Issue, AFSPA
  • North-East Insurgency: Historical Roots, Challenges, and Peace Initiatives
  • Cyber Security: Cyber Terrorism, Threats, & Safeguarding Critical Information Infrastructure
  • Social Media: Impact On Society, National Security, and Democracy
  • Money Laundering: Impact on Economy, Global Strategies, and Preventive Measures
  • Security Challenges and Border Management In India: Initiative, Challenge & Way Forward 
  • Security Forces & Agencies: Type, Mandate, Roles, Contributions, and Challenges
  • Police Reforms In India
  • Black Money: Dimensions, Socio-Economic Impact & Remedies to Curb

Disaster Management

  • DISASTERS AND THEIR MANAGEMENT
  • Hazards and Disasters: Catastrophes & Impacts for Effective Governance
  • Classification and Types of Disasters and Natural Hazards
  • Disaster Management in India
  • Role of Technology in Disaster Management: NDMS, Early Warning Systems, Satellites
  • National Policy On Disaster Management 2009: Approach, Objectives, and Issues
  • Disaster Risk Index and Reduction: Sendai Framework, SDGs & Strategies

Ancient Indian History

  • THE PALLAVAS ( 275CE-897CE ): HISTORY, ART, CULTURE, CONFLICTS, AND DECLINE
  • 16 Mahajanapadas: Rulers, Achievements, and Timelines
  • Forests in India: Biodiversity, Types, and Conservation
  • ANCIENT HISTORY
  • UPSC Notes for Ancient History of India | UPSC Exams
  • Indus Valley Civilization: Important Dates, Sites & Decline of IVC
  • Vedic Period: History Notes for UPSC & Govt. Exams
  • Sangam Age – Political History of South India | UPSC Ancient History Notes
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  • Jainism and Buddhism: Difference and Similarities| UPSC Notes
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  • Harshavardhana: Empire of Harsha, History, Reign | UPSC Notes

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  • Recently, the External Affairs Minister stated that India has initiated activities through its cultural centres abroad to emphasise the message that India is the mother of democracy.

About a democracy

  • In a democratic country, people themselves select and elect a representative as their leader. 
  • As Abraham Lincoln famously expressed, democracy is a “government of the people, by the people, for the people”. 
  • It is a political system where people are supreme and freedom of choice is its core.
  • The term ‘democracy’ originated from the Greek term ‘d?mokratía’ which means “rule of the people”. 
  • Direct democracy is the one in which the eligible citizens directly and actively participate in the political decision-making. 
  • Indirect democracy is the one in which the sovereign power remains with the eligible citizens and the elected representatives exercise the political power; this type of democracy is also known as democratic republic or the representative democracy .

What makes India ‘the mother of democracy’?

  • One of the ancient civilizations was in India. The existence of Sabhas and Samitis throughout the Vedic Period is where India’s history of democracy begins.
  • The word Gana also means numbers and Ganarajya will therefore mean the rule of numbers or the rule of many.
  • The Buddhist texts (Jatakas) also refers to the existence of many autonomous clan with a non-monarchical form of government in sixth century B.C. Notable among them were Shakyas of Kapilavastu, Lichchhavis of Vaishali, the Videhas of Mithila, etc. 
  • “There is a small but famous village in Tamil Nadu, called Uthiramerur . An inscription on a rock here, some 1,100 or 1,200 years old, amazes the world. This rock inscription is like a mini-Constitution. It explains in detail how the gram sabha should be conducted and what should be the process of selection of its members,”.
  • The 12th-century Anubhav Mandapam of Bhagwan Basaveshwara . Here, free debate and discussion was encouraged.
  • The democratic India believes in the principles of equality, liberty, justice and fraternity . 
  • India has a pluralistic and consultative tradition that very few societies, if anybody at all, can match. 
  • The people from any caste, creed, sex, religion, and region have an equal right to vote and choose their representatives. 
  • Since its inception, India has taken a progressive stance. 
  • Indians have granted women the right to vote, protected every citizen’s fundamental rights, and incorporated the principle of the separation of powers. 
  • Indians have also incorporated principles like secularism, which are still not widely practiced in other democracies, into the Indian Constitution from the beginning. 

Features of Indian democracy

  • India has a parliamentary form of government based on a universal adult franchise.  
  • The executive authority is responsible to the elected representatives of the people. Parliament for all its decisions and actions. Sovereignty rests ultimately with the people.
  • The legislature, which is made up of the elected government, is collectively accountable to the elected government. 
  • In an Indian democracy, the Council of Ministers, both in the states and the centre, is collectively responsible for their respective ministers. 
  • The judiciary is independent of the executive. It is the guardian and interpreter of the Constitution. 
  • At the apex of the entire judicial system exists the Supreme Court of India. Each State has its own High Court. 
  • A code of civil and criminal laws applies to the whole country.
  • In India, neither the parliament nor the judiciary have any precedence over the Constitution. 
  • In contrast to many other nations, India has a written constitution which clearly defines the roles, powers, and obligations of the several departments of government and sets down the limitations within which they must operate.
  • The Fundamental Rights of every Indian citizen include the freedom of speech, expression, belief, assembly and association, migration, and choice of occupation or trade. 
  • These rights also protect every Indian from discrimination on grounds of race, religion, creed or sex, and are enforceable in courts of law.

Challenges faced by Indian Democracy

  • The major challenge faced by democracy is the heterogeneous composition of the country as Indian society is divided on the basis of caste, religion, etc. 
  • People in India still vote in favour of caste, community or religion. 
  • Criminalisation of politics and political violence also create hindrance in the smooth functioning of democracy.
  • Manipulation of people’s verdicts by the political parties is still practised.
  • Factors such as corruption, women’s issues, caste issues, political strategies etc. affect politics at the national and the state level in the country. 
  • Illiteracy is a major factor which can affect the smooth functioning of democracy in the country.
  • Poverty too affects the successful running of democracy. 
  • Political and communal violence has gained serious proportions in the country. 
  • The role of the citizens of India is most important for its democracy. 
  • For a successful working of democracy, it is the right as well as the duty of every Indian to choose and elect the appropriate representative for the country.
  • Civil society has to go beyond the nation-state to renew the idea of the Earth as an imagination. 
  • India needs a new rethink around peace. It has to go beyond the official text of security and borders.

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On myanmar, india needs a rethink, india’s global rise, its regional decline, protecting india’s built heritage and ancient buildings, daily current affairs 07-05-2024.

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Recently, India celebrated its 75 th Independence Day. The occasion provides us a great opportunity to delve back in time when a newly independent nation made its ‘tryst’ with political democracy and how it is faring today on key democratic factors as well as in comparison to other major democracies of the world

What is a democracy?

essay on democracy in india upsc

The word democracy comes from the Greek words “demos”, meaning people, and “kratos” meaning power; so democracy can be thought of as “power of the people”: a way of governing that depends on the will of the people.

No one is born a good citizen, no nation is born a democracy. Rather, both are processes that continue to evolve over a lifetime. Young people must be included from birth.   – Kofi Annan

Why choose democracy?

The idea of democracy derives its moral strength – and popular appeal – from two key principles:

  • Individual autonomy : The idea that no one should be subject to rules which have been imposed by others. People should be able to control their own lives (within reason).
  • Equality: The idea that everyone should have the same opportunity to influence the decisions that affect people in society.
Democracy is good. I say this because other systems are worse. – Pt Nehry

Democracy in India

  • Ancient India had a democratic republic even before the 6 th century BCE and India has seen democratic rule through ages. Vaishali (in present-day Bihar) is considered one of the first republics around 6th century BCE.
  • Republics at that time were called ‘Mahajanpadas’ and Sabhas and Samitis (assemblies) existed. Panchayat systems were also used in some of these republics.
  • Anti-colonial movements in India brought democracy into the picture during British rule in India. Nehru, Gandhi, Ambedkar, etc helped in bringing universal adult franchise, at a time when the literacy rate was very low in the nation.
  • Government of India Act, 1935 laid the foundation for democratic rule in India.
  • India’s independent modern democratic journey started in 1950 with the full implementation of the constitution of India. The constitution of India declared the nation as a sovereign democratic republic. India granted Universal Adult Franchise under Article 326 of its Constitution effective in 1950 giving a strong base for democracy.
  • The general elections of 1951 were the biggest electoral exercise on such a large scale in democratic history. Since then 17 Lok Sabha have been formed, several PMs and Presidents have been elected.
  •  The Indian Republic at present has a parliamentary system of democracy and a federal structure in which leaders are elected by citizens of various castes, classes, religions, etc.

How Indian Democracy has performed in past?

(A)Positive aspects

Political front

  • India is the world’s largest democracy proving a success in accommodation of group and regional demands in a complex, quasi-federal, polity.
  • During the first general election in 1951, India had 54 political parties and now it has grown up to 464 in the 2019 general election as evidence of the deepening of the democratic process.
  • In the first General election in 1951, 173 million citizens were given the right to vote.
  • In the 16 th  general election in 2014, the size of the electorate had increased to 814 million.

Social front

  • The democratic process has brought about a shift of political power from the middle and higher castes and classes of urban society to backward classes who are now the politically most influential ones in the country.
  • They have won reservations for themselves in legislatures and government services as were accorded to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes after independence through Constitutional provisions.
  • Members of marginalized sections of society and minority communities have reached the top legislative and executive positions in the country.

Economic Front

  • India has become the 5 th largest economy in the world and is also the fastest growing major economy in the world.
  • India has been able to emerge as a regional power in Asia and superpower in south Asia backed by its economic, military and nuclear capabilities.
  • The incidence of Poverty has reduced from 70% in 1950 to around 20% at present. The economic well-being of people has improved. Incomes and living standard of people has improved substantially.

(B)Negative aspects

  • Declaration of emergency- in 1975 was an aberration in India’s political democracy journey and will remain a blot on Indian democracy.
  • Period of political instability – India saw the assassination of two of its Prime Ministers in the first 40 years of its democracy. The last decade of the 20 th century witnessed high political turmoil due to unstable coalition governments. In this period, India saw 5 PM’s in 10 years.
  • Low women representation : the number of elected women representatives in the Indian parliament is just 16% even after 75 years of independence.
  • Continuing ill social practices – like caste-based discrimination, manual scavenging etc point towards continuous breaching of fundamental rights of citizens of India. It also shows that we are still to achieve Social democracy.

Economic front

  • Low per capita income – An Indian’s per capita income is one the lowest in the world, even lower than a Bangladeshi national.
  • High poverty and inequality : India still has one of the world’s largest populations of poor in the world. In addition to this, income and wealth distribution is highly unequal with the top 1% of wealthy people owing 70% of the wealth in India (Source- World inequality report)

We must not to be content with mere political democracy. We must make our political democracy a social democracy as well. Political democracy cannot last unless there lies at the base of it social democracy. What does social democracy mean? It means a way of life that recognizes liberty, equality and fraternity as the principles of life.    – Dr. BR Ambedkar

Present situation of Indian Democracy

  • Still continuing democracy: The Indian democracy is still continuing opposite to what was apprehended by British PM Winston Churchill at the time of independence of India.
  • Public trust: The enthusiasm and trust among the Indian masses for democracy is still continuing as evident from high voting turnout during elections as compared tp developed democracies where voting percentages are declining.
  • Respect for constitution: The original constitution is still intact, continuing and greatly revered by all political parties and sections of the society.
  • Global reputation: At the international level, India has carved its own space as a highly diverse and largest democracy in the world,

(B) Negative Aspect

  • Weakening of political democracy : Several constitutional experts have pointed toward a decline in democracy in India. It is evident from the dropping rankings of India in several key indices like the Democracy index (labelled India a ‘flawed democracy’), V-Dem report (called India ‘Electoral Autocracy’)
  • Decline of Parliament: Parliament as a democratic institution is underperforming. The ability of Parliament to seek accountability of the executive has been severely hampered. Productivity of Lok Sabha in the 2021 monsoon was just 22% due to disruption by Opposition. Informed debates in parliament have also been reduced. There is high usage of ordinances and voice notes to make decisions inside parliament
  • Non-Attainment of economic democracy: As evident from high economic inequality among masses [the debate of INDIA (Urban India) vs BHARAT (Rural India)], low women participation in the labour force, economic backwardness in several large states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha etc
  • Weak social democracy: As evident from recent communal clashes in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, continuing of several secessionist movements like Khalistan, demand for Nagalim, high crimes against women etc this has hampered the creation of true ‘Fraternity’ which Preamble of Constitution talks about.
  • Weakening of civil society: There has been a continuing phenomenon of weakening of civil society including NGO’s, academic institutions where these institutions are finding it difficult to uphold accountability of the govt.
  • Growing gulf between public and their representatives: Today, elected representatives are more representatives of their political parties than the people who have elected them. Also, Older MP’s are representing young India (Average age of Indian MP’s-54) and Crorepati MP’s are representing poor Indians (88% MP’s are crorepati).

Causes of lacunas in current democracy

  • Authoritarian attitude of the regime – The government due to Weak opposition and civil society, as they are failing to uphold the Government’s accountability inside and outside parliament.
  • COVID-19 crisis – parliaments stopped working during the crisis which further led to reduced accountability of the executive to parliament
  • Criminalization of politics – there has been a growing trend in the number of parliamentarians having criminal records with the current 17 th Lok Sabha having the highest ever (50%) of MP with criminal records of them. Thus, lawbreakers are becoming lawmakers.
  • Decreasing ethical politics- The political morality and ethical conduct of elected representatives have been decreasing rapidly as evident from the frequent shifting of politicians between different political parties (‘Resort’ democracy, where the governments are being formed in resorts rather than in parliament), use of unethical language and unparliamentary conduct inside parliament.
  • Strengthening of identity politics – Identity politics have been rising in India for the past few years where people are being polarized to vote for their caste or religion only.

Consequences

  • Democratic backsliding or democratic deficit – all of the above causes have led to democratic deficit/backsliding which there has a growing gulf between preaching and practice of democracy in India.
  • Spillover effect – with the growing power of the executive and weakening of democratic institutions like parliament, the pressure on the judiciary is increasing as evident from the fact that almost all major bills passed by parliament are being challenged in the supreme court. This is leading to Judicial activism.
  • Weak social mobility and human capital development – Because of all this, the economic growth of the nation is suffering which is further leading to slow social mobility and human capital development.

Comparison with thy neighbors

  • Though both India and Pakistan started their political journey under a democratic framework, both countries after 75 years stand at opposite ends. While India is considered a vibrant democracy, Pakistan is considered a failed state.
  • In India, 70% of the population believes that democracy is preferable to other forms of government, whereas in Pakistan, only 37% population, believes that democracy is preferable.
  • Pakistan witnessed three dictatorships regimes under different military generals and multiple suspensions of its constitution while India continued on its path of democracy and constitutionalism.
  • Even during periods of civilian rule, the Pakistan army and its powerful Inter-Intelligence-Services have retained the right to set the country’s foreign and security policy.

Comparison between Bangladesh and Pakistan

  • Bangladesh chose the secular democratic route after independence, but its flirtation with the secular government was brief. It soon followed in the footsteps of Pakistan, opted for authoritarian military rule and made Islam the state religion. However, under its current Sheikh Hasina regime, Bangladesh is regenerating its democracy and economy.
  • Bangladesh outpaces Pakistan across all standard economic indicators, including nominal gross domestic product, GDP per capita, GDP growth rate and foreign reserves. It has now become one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
  • A GDP of $411 billion, compared to Pakistan’s GDP of $347 billion, makes Bangladesh the 33rd largest economy in the world. Experts forecast that the economy’s size could double by 2030.
  • Bangladesh has also made more progress in human development in some areas compared to Pakistan, for example in the infant mortality rate. In 2018 there were 22 deaths per 1,000 live births in Bangladesh, compared to 57deaths in Pakistan. The current life expectancy in Bangladesh is 73, compared to 67 in Pakistan, 

Way forward

  • Opposition:  strong democracy requires strong opposition. Without an alternative choice, the very objective of election to provide a check on arbitrary power gets defeated.
  • Need to bring in Constitutional Morality: It also makes the governing institutions and representatives accountable to the people.
  •  Promoting Good Governance : Good governance enables to reach out government schemes to the needy and it entrusts the desire to do well in life.  It also helps to realize one’s duties and rights and boosts confidence in government.
  • Welcoming criticism : The Government should hear criticism rather than reject it out rightly. Suggestions on eroding democratic values need a thoughtful and respectful response.
  • Equality in the society : If redistributive public welfare policies are effective, the inequality in society would be reduced. Thus, it must be the priority of the government to maintain social and economic equality and inclusive growth.
  • Parliamentary oversight : It is necessary to hold strong checks on the executive through parliamentary committees, question hours, etc. Separation of powers is the most important thing for a healthy democracy.

Until and unless we don’t realize the real sense of Democracy we can’t live with dignity. Only with people’s participation, it can be achieved.

It is important that all the government organs work in harmony to uphold the trust people of the country have held in them and ensure the objectives of true democracy.

In the upcoming “Amrit Kaal” (2022-2047), we must ensure that by the end of this period, India should have achieved its “Tryst with Destiny”- A Social, Political and Economic Democracy in the true sense.

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An excellent article that reflects on India’s journey of democracy from its independence to the present day. The author provides valuable insights and comparisons with other major democracies.

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essay on democracy in india upsc

(Sample Essay) In India Democracy is way of Life by Vivek Kumar Singh

In india democracy is way of life.

By: Vivek Kumar Singh Course Coordinator Essay Programme WWW.UPSCPORTAL.COM  

For us in India, democracy is not just a way of life, it is the way of life. For our nation the defining principle has been and will always be “Unity in Diversity”. This is the idea of India. Our unity has been forged through the institutions and values of democracy. Indeed the fundamental premise behind our governance system is that every Indian is a free person. We seek salvation for ourselves through the framework of an open society and an open economy. Today, it is with pride as an Indian that recognize the extent to which our democratic experience is regarded abroad with admiration. India is a multi-religious and multicultural society. Democracy and the respect for fundamental human freedoms and for the rule of law do provide a congenial environment for development.

Democracy is a method of government by persuasion and discussion. The core of democracy is choice. Democracy is incompatible to any form of idea e.g. socialism, collectivism,or capitalism. Democratic society is always open to ideas and views.It entertains plurality of ideas and arrives at an agreed line of action by comparing them, ironing out the difference and forming a composition.The word Socialism was purposely avoided though many of the tenets of socialism were included as the DPSP. The constitution must allow future parliaments to function freely without being tied to a particular political agenda. All parliaments must be allowed the freedom to choose and adopt the best in the prevailing circumstances. The Preamble to our constitution says, “We the people of India, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a Sovereign Democratic Republic ” It has been further said in the preamble itself that Indian democracy will secure to all its citizens social, economic and political justice, liberty of thought, expression, belief and faith and equality of status and opportunity. In the past it guaranteed only political rights, but now it is also striving to secure economic rights as well.

Abraham Lincoln in his famous speech at Gettysberg described democracy as government of the people , by the people ,for the people. Democracy is slightly more than that. Apart from political it is social also. It envisages not only a democratic form of government but a society in which there is free exchange of ideas and each individual enjoys the same status in society.

Democracy is a way of life in India .It has grown deep roots. The making of democratic India was not only result of an ideological preference ,but a pragmatic understanding of ground realities. There is no doubt that the present age is the age of democracy, and it has developed into a very strong movement all over the world. Even the Communist countries, which reject the basic western philosophy of democracy, call themselves people’s democracy. India not only survived but flourished as a democracy. An important aspect of the Indian democratic resilience is the ability to adapt and accommodate to changing realities. In a democracy ,economic reforms are an exercise in political persuasion and management and yet our direction remains clear as also our determination to deepen the reform process. Many countries have been unable to resist the temptation of achieving certain economic goals at the cost of effectively curtailing the right of dissent and the freedom of expression .But in India the democratic spirit been instrumental in creating change.

The triumph of Indian democracy was that it accommodated the sentiments behind the secessionist tendencies and provided solutions within the framework of the Indian union.The Indian people have used their democratic prerogative to mandate a coalition government in New Delhi- when this happen ,many observers at home and abroad jumped to the conclusion that India was on the brink of instability and would soon become ungovernable. Almost all the parliamentary democracies of the Europe have passed through coalition systems to arrive at stable two-party systems ,even now, several European countries are governed by coalitions.

Pt. Nehru 's prescient caution to the political classes of our country when he said that more than external aggression ,the greatest threat to India's unity and independence would be he rise of communal politics and religious politics.

Liberty,Equality and Fraternity generally in all constitutions of the whole world.But Justice is unique feature of our constitution.Democracy succeeded so far because of visions of the leaders and democratic temper of the people but distortions continues when whole state get hijacked during election days.

Democratisation of country's political and government institutions with greater representation of the rural population and weaker sections of the Indian society.The expansion of literacy and the experience of electoral politics spread over the last five decades have qualitatively raised level of political consciousness and socio-eco expectations among the people.There is lack of charismatic leadership and national appeal cutting across considerations of caste,religion, language regional and ethnic afflictions.National parties have to depend on coalition arrangement changed the sociological and economic impulses of domestic politics.

Needless to say that democracy is a philosophy that has to be put into practice with certain degrees of variations in different parts of the world, without sacrificing its essence. Indian democracy is comparatively young and not as strong as western democracies. It does still suffer from many ills, which are likely to linger for some time before they are completely removed.

(a) The greatest ill of our democracy is that a large number of people in India are illiterate.They have no mature thought about their voting right and choice. (b) The feelings of casteism, communalism and regionalism.It mars the basic feeling of democracy.There should be proper law to punish those who choses such means. We need people whom our people can respect and not merely because they belong to their own subsect, but because they have personal attributes that are relevant to the task of nation building. (c) Another bane of our democracy is the influence of money and muscle power in the elections.There is need of electoral reforms and auditing of electoral expenses. (d) The multiplicity of parties is the cause of lack of a strong opposition party, which is essential for smooth functioning of a democracy.There is need of evolution of two strong party system in India. (e) Another serious problem that confronts our demo¬cracy is that of political defection.There is need of strong law because old one is not yet effective.

Democracy is slow ,painful but definite process.All political parties remain completely committed to democratic institutions.India has a non-political permanent civil administration and military establishment.Conviction among the people that contradictions emanating from the diversities and pluralities have to be resolved through democratic means.For a democracy to be truly great,people must not only have the freedom of choice -not between the bad and the worse,but between the best and the better.

"She has 300 million faces but one sole life,majestic and strong eighteen are her tongues for utterance and yet, her heart is one."(SUBRAMANIAM BHARATI)

The functioning of democratic institutions in India has been satisfactory on the whole. Scope for improvement is always there. India’s 1977 elections proved that democracy is a way of life for Indians, who hold it as a valuable possession and would not let it slip. In working towards these ends, and for Government to be an effective instrument of development, it is necessary to make it more transparent as well as more accountable. Here the media has a very important role to play. It has long been said that eternal vigilance is the price of democracy. Democracy is based on the notion of a popular mandate, but it should not be construed as a populist mandate.

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Democracy Essay

Democracy is derived from the Greek word demos or people. It is defined as a government in which the supreme power is vested in the people. Democracy is exercised directly by the people; in large societies, it is by the people through their elected agents. In the phrase of President Abraham Lincoln, democracy is the “Government of the people, by the people, and for the people.” There are various democratic countries, but India has the largest democracy in the world. This Democracy Essay will help you know all about India’s democracy. Students can also get a list of CBSE Essays on different topics to boost their essay-writing skills.

500+ Words Democracy Essay

India is a very large country full of diversities – linguistically, culturally and religiously. At the time of independence, it was economically underdeveloped. There were enormous regional disparities, widespread poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, and a shortage of almost all public welfare means. Since independence, India has been functioning as a responsible democracy. The same has been appreciated by the international community. It has successfully adapted to challenging situations. There have been free and fair periodic elections for all political offices, from the panchayats to the President. There has been a smooth transfer of political power from one political party or set of political parties to others, both at national and state levels, on many occasions.

India: A Democratic Country

Democracy is of two, i.e. direct and representative. In a direct democracy, all citizens, without the intermediary of elected or appointed officials, can participate in making public decisions. Such a system is only practical with relatively small numbers of people in a community organisation or tribal council. Whereas in representative democracy, every citizen has the right to vote for their representative. People elect their representatives to all levels, from Panchayats, Municipal Boards, State Assemblies and Parliament. In India, we have a representative democracy.

Democracy is a form of government in which rulers elected by the people take all the major decisions. Elections offer a choice and fair opportunity to the people to change the current rulers. This choice and opportunity are available to all people on an equal basis. The exercise of this choice leads to a government limited by basic rules of the constitution and citizens’ rights.

Democracy is the Best Form of Government

A democratic government is a better government because it is a more accountable form of government. Democracy provides a method to deal with differences and conflicts. Thus, democracy improves the quality of decision-making. The advantage of a democracy is that mistakes cannot be hidden for long. There is a space for public discussion, and there is room for correction. Either the rulers have to change their decisions, or the rulers can be changed. Democracy offers better chances of a good decision. It respects people’s own wishes and allows different kinds of people to live together. Even when it fails to do some of these things, it allows a way of correcting its mistakes and offers more dignity to all citizens. That is why democracy is considered the best form of government.

Students must have found this “Democracy Essay” useful for improving their essay writing skills. They can get the study material and the latest update on CBSE/ICSE/State Board/Competitive Exams, at BYJU’S.

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Essay on Democracy in India

List of essays on democracy in india, essay on democracy in india – short essay for children (essay 1 – 150 words), essay on democracy in india – 10 lines on democracy written in english (essay 2 – 250 words), essay on democracy in india (essay 3 – 300 words), essay on democracy in india – what is democracy (essay 4 – 400 words), essay on democracy in india – for school students (class 6, 7 and 8) (essay 5 – 500 words), essay on democracy in india – for college students (essay 6 – 600 words), essay on democracy in indian constitution (essay 7 – 750 words), essay on democracy in india – long essay for competitive exams like ias, ips civil services and upsc (essay 8 – 1000 words).

India is the largest country in the world that follows the Democratic form of government. With a population of over a billion, India is a secular, socialistic, republic, and democratic country in the world.

India is considered as the lighthouse that guides the democratic movement in the African–Asian countries. Democracy in India is backed by our written Constitution which consists of a list of all fundamental laws upon which our nation is to be governed.

January 26, the day on which our Constitution came into effect is celebrated as Republic Day and it was on this day that Democracy truly entered India.

Audience: The below given essays are exclusively written for school students (Class 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 Standard) and college students. Furthermore, those students preparing for competitive exams like IAS, IPS and UPSC can also increase their knowledge by studying these essays.

Introduction:

Democracy in India can be defined as a government by the people, of the people and for the people. In India the government is formed by the citizens through their elected representatives.

Principle of Democracy in India:

In a democracy at least the fundamental rights of the individuals are guaranteed. The five principles by which the democracy in India works are Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic and Republic.

Enhancement Areas:

Some of the areas in which the Democracy in India can be improved include the eradication of poverty, encouraging people to vote and educate them about choosing the appropriate candidate, increasing literacy etc.

Conclusion:

Democracy in India is one of the biggest in the world and is celebrated worldwide. Given the wide range of culture and diversity, the need of the hour is that democracy is upheld without losing the diverse heritage of which the country is proud of. Democracy in India would be smooth when the emotions of every culture is acknowledged.

India is the largest democracy in the world. The citizens of the country who are above 18 years of age, elect their representatives in the Lok Sabha via secret ballots (general elections). They are elected for a period of 5 years and ministers are chosen from the elected representatives. India became a democratic nation in 1947 and thereafter the leaders were elected by the people of India. Different parties’ campaign using different future agendas and they emphasize on what they did for the development of people between the election periods. This way, the citizens can make an informed choice in selecting a particular representative.

The word democracy is derived from Greek and it literary means ‘power of the people’. The government is run by the people and it if for the people. The model of Indian democracy is followed by the entire Afro-Asian countries. Our form of democracy in India is much different from democracy of other nations like England and USA.

Although the democracy in India is much advanced, there are still some drawbacks which affect the healthy functioning of the system. These include religion and ignorance. Although we say India is a secular country, but there are still people present who believe in treating people from different religions differently. We have advanced from the ancient traditions like Sati but now a days, people kill each other over killing of Cow, which is considered as a sacred animal for Hindus. Other than these, much work needs to be done to reduce and eliminate poverty, illiteracy and gender discrimination among a list of many others.

India is the largest country in the world that follows the Democratic form of government. With a population of over a billion, India is a secular, socialistic, republic, and democratic country in the world. India is considered as the lighthouse that guides the democratic movement in the African–Asian countries.

Meaning of Democracy:

Democracy means ‘by the people, for the people, and of the people’. A democratic country is one whose government is made of the people, elected by the people to serve the people. The Indian country is governed by a parliamentary system of governance which follows the constitution of India. During the past 70 years, India has held regular elections for the legislative and parliamentary assemblies, reflecting the power of the election commission, who is regarded as the powerful authority.

Democracy in India has a very strong foundation that runs deep into the cultural and moral ethics. Thanks to the efficient leaders like Lal Bahadur Shastri, Sardar Vallabhai Patel, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, etc., whose contribution to a successful democratic India is immeasurable.

Principles of Democratic India:

Democracy in India follows five principles. They are:

a) Secular – A place where people are bestowed with the freedom of religion, to follow a religion of their own choice.

b) Social – Providing equality to everyone irrespective of their caste, creed, color, gender, and other differences.

c) Sovereign – A country that is free from the control of any foreign authorities or power.

d) Democratic – A country where the government is made for the people, by the people of the country with the representatives of people.

e) Republic – No hierarchy is followed while the head of the country is elected by regular elections and the power changes at a regular period of interval.

Not only does democracy in India mean that every citizen has the right to vote, but also it says that people – the citizens of India have full right to question the government if the government doesn’t ensure equality to its citizens in all spheres of life. While democracy in India is effective, we have a long way to go to become a successful democratic country. Illiteracy, poverty, discrimination, and other social issues should be eradicated completely to enjoy the real fruit of democracy in India.

The best definition of democracy has been described as the government of the people, by the people and for the people. India became a sovereign democratic nation back in the year 1947 and the country is still on the roads to development.

In true terms, democracy in India would mean a country wherein people can find quality and they have the freedom to express themselves. The ideal nation is going to be truly democratic and this leaves us with a baffling question. Is democracy in India truly established?

Given the state of turmoil which our nation is in, the question indeed has a palpable and sorry answer. To be honest, if democracy in India was legit, people will have the power to choose their destiny. While we do have a voting system in place which gives people the power to elect their representative, it is often seen to be grossly misused.

The Need to Educate and Enlighten:

If we want the largest democracy of the world to truly live up to the meaning of democracy; it is important to both educate and enlighten the masses. More and more people need to understand the power that has been vested in them. When the commoners understand the kind of influence they can have as far as choosing their political leader is concerned; it might help them think meticulously before putting in the vote and can sanctify the meaning of democracy in India.

There are so many people who do not even bother to register a vote. Are they not bothered about the outcome and progress of their nation? Unless, the right measures are taken to truly educate the mass about how democracy in India is the glorious future we should all dream of, things are least likely to change.

Handling the Flaws:

It’s been a long time since we became independent. So, it is important now to handle the flaws in the democracy in India. The seeds of corruption have been very deeply set in our country and one needs to do something as a start to combat the problem.

It is easy to whine and very hard to put up a fight. So, the right thing which you should do is ensure that you do your bit for the sake of improving the state of affairs of the country. Give in your best shot and be hopeful that things will change for the good as far as democracy in India is concerned.

When the people of the country start taking an active part in the welfare of the state, we will achieve the true meaning of democracy in India.

The word Democracy is derived from the Greek words ‘Demos’ and ‘Kratos’. Demos means People and Kratos means Power. Together put, it means People’s Power. Abraham Lincoln described Democracy as ‘Government by the people, for the people and of the people’. The emphasis on people clearly shows that Democracy is a people-centric form of government. Many consider it to be a superior form of governance as it ensures social and economic equality of every citizen in the country.

In India, a Democratic government was formed only after its freedom from the British rule in 1947. However, the practices of a Democratic system in India go way back. Both Rigveda and Atharvaveda have references of a system where the people gather as a whole and elect Kings.

Democracy in India is backed by our written Constitution which consists of a list of all fundamental laws upon which our nation is to be governed. January 26, the day on which our Constitution came into effect is celebrated as Republic Day and it was on this day that Democracy truly entered India.

Types of Democracy:

Democracy is of two types, Direct Democracy and Indirect Democracy.

In Direct Democracy, all the people come together in a single place to elect the governing executives themselves. This is possible for small cities where the population is less and everybody can gather together at one place. Even today, Switzerland exercises a Direct Democracy system.

Indirect Democracy is exercised in countries where there is huge population, making it difficult for all to gather at one place. In this case, people elect representatives who in turn elect the governing executive. Hence in India, Indirect Democracy is practiced.

Five Principles of Indian Democracy:

Democracy in India operates on five important principles:

1. Sovereign: In our country, we Indians are the supreme power and are not controlled by any other foreign power.

2. Socialist: There is economic and social equality promised to every citizen of India.

3. Secular: Every Indian citizen has the freedom to practise his religion of choice.

4. Democratic: Our government is elected by the people.

5. Republic: Supreme power is held by the people and their nominated representatives, instead of a hereditary king.

Working of Indian Democracy:

India has a Federal government where there are separate State governments which come under a single Central government. Indian citizens elect their leaders by the system of voting. Both State and Central elections happen once in five years. Every citizen above the age of eighteen years has the right to vote irrespective of caste, color, creed, religion, gender and education.

Any citizen has the right to stand as a candidate for the post of President and Prime Minister irrespective of religion, gender and education. Elections happen through secret ballots. People elect their representatives of the State who in-turn elect the Head of State, the Chief Minister. Similarly, the public elect the members of the Parliament who in turn elect the Prime Minister.

Democracy in India has succeeded on contrary to the beliefs of many political scientists. Today, India is a pioneer of Democracy in Asia and all other Asian and African countries look up to us for Democratic inspirations.

India is a democratic nation. If you do not know what democracy means, one of the most popular definition has to be, “the government by the people, for the people, of the people.”

So, if we truly want our nation to be democratic and preserve the value of this term, it signifies the fact that the common people should all be a part of the development of the nation. The government should so function that their decisions help in the betterment of the country and the citizens.

Are we truly a democratic nation?

A lot of people argue as to whether or not we are truly democratic, we need to know that there is still a long way to go. As per the books of law and the great Indian constitution, we can see that we are one of the leading democratic countries. However, if you decide to go beyond the books, you will perceive the change. There is a long way to go because democracy has a wider and deeper meaning.

The True Meaning:

Democracy means that people elect the representatives who in turn take charge of the nation and help in the betterment and upliftment of the citizens. While in India, which is a top democratic country, we do have the power to elect our representatives, there is still a lot which needs to be done. Our elected representatives do not understand the importance of the office they are holding. This is why the country has failed to make the kind of progress which it may have otherwise made.

Along with this, it is also seen that there are a lot of unscrupulous means which are often used for the sake of electing representatives. There has to be even more control when it comes to voting and election. When people are clear about their role and they understand that it is with their influence and power that the future of the country can be improved, they are likely to put their power to right use.

How can we truly live up to the tag of democracy?

The change needs to begin with you. There are so many people who complain about how our country has made a mockery of democracy, however what one has to clearly understand is that democracy calls for an equal work by everyone. Remember rather than whining and blaming, you should make it a point to do something yourself.

Create an awareness campaign and try and explain people as to why and how they could bring a change in the nation and contribute towards justifying the tag of India being a true democracy. This awareness and education can be critical in pushing the right waves of change.

Choose leader wisely: It is also important to make sure that we are mindful of who we are choosing as our leaders. You should take the decision on the right parameters rather than being judgmental and getting hoodwinked by superficial factors. The right decision today can safeguard your tomorrow.

So in the end you should understand that democracy is definitely one of the founding pillars for any progressive nation, India is a democracy but we still have a long way to go. Both the individuals and the leaders need to understand the true meaning of democracy and then find the right ways to work around things.

There is no great bond than what ties people to their motherland. So you should make it a point to let the meaning and feeling of democracy seep inside your body and mind and then let it work the magic. Our country deserves our love and respect and definitely the undivided attention as well.

So, let us do our bit for true democracy.

Over a long period of time, India has been ruled by different rulers as well had different forms of government. However, post the British era, India has seen a constant form of government which is governed under the law as laid down under the constitution of India. Democracy is one such important feature of our constitution. Under democracy, the citizens of the country have the right to vote as well the members who in turn form the government.

History of Democracy

The earliest mention of the word democracy has been found in the Greek political texts dating back to 508-507 BC. It has been derived from the word demos which mean common people and Kratos which means strength.

Democracy in Indian Constitution:

Democracy through the constitution of India gives its nationals the privilege to cast a ballot regardless of their rank, caste, creed religion or gender. It has five equitable standards – secular, socialist, republic, sovereign and democratic. Different political organisations represent people at the state and national level. They proliferate about the undertakings achieved in their past residency and furthermore share their tentative arrangements with the general population.

Each citizen of India, over the age of 18 years, has the privilege to cast a vote. The government has always encouraged the individuals to make their choice and cast their vote. Individuals must know everything about the applicants representing the decisions and vote in favour of the most meriting one for good government.

India is known to have an effective democratic framework. In any case, there are some loopholes as well that dampen the spirit of democracy and should be dealt with. In addition to other things, the legislature must work on disposing of poverty, lack of education, communalism, gender discrimination and casteism with the end goal to guarantee democratic system in its obvious sense.

Importance of Democracy in Indian Politics:

Indian democratic government is described by peaceful conjunction of various thoughts and beliefs. There are solid collaboration and rivalry among different political organisations. Since the poll is the path of democratic system, there exist numerous political organisations and every organisation has their own agenda and thoughts.

Good Effects of Democracy:

The democracy has its own share of advantages as well as disadvantages for the common citizens of the country. First, it is instrumental in protecting the rights of the citizens and gives them all the right to choose their government. Additionally, it does not allow a monocratic rule to crop us as all leaders know that need to perform in case they want the people to elect them during the next elections as well. Hence they cannot assume that they have powers forever. Giving all the citizens right to vote provides them with a sense of equality irrespective of their caste, gender, creed or financial status.

The government so formed after democratic elections is usually a stable and responsible form of government. It makes the government socially responsible towards all citizens and the government cannot ignore the plight of its citizens. On the other side, the citizen also behaves in a responsible manner as they know that it is not only their right but their duty as well to choose the government wisely. They are themselves to be blamed if they do not get the government they had wished for it is they who have not rightly exercised their right to vote.

Ill Effects of Democracy:

Democracy, however, leads to misuse of public funds as time and again the elections are conducted at short intervals when we don’t get a stable government and there is infighting among the elected representatives. Also, though considered a duty, the people at times do not exercise their right to vote and a very less voting percentage is seen in many areas which do not give a fair chance to all contestants. Last, but not the least, unfair practices during elections dampen the very spirit of democracy.

A government who strive to be successful cannot overlook the majority of the population that work at fields and the middle class in India. The laws are confined by just thoughts and beliefs of the population. Majority ruling government keeps away from struggle and showdown and makes a peaceful climate for all to live a happy life.

However, at times it has been seen that the majority of the general population of our nation are ignorant and struggle to make their ends meet on day to day basis. Except if the nation is financially and instructively propelled, it will not be right to believe that the electorate will utilize their right to vote to the best advantages of themselves and the nation.

Introduction (Definition) and Concept of Democracy in India:

Democracy in India is the largest in the whole world. Democracy means that the citizens of that country have the power to choose their government. Based on that concept laid by Abraham Lincoln, democracy in India gives rise to a government which is of the people, by the people, and for the people.

Since independence, our constitution has made sure that democracy in India is exercised in its truest form. The greatest of all the powers given to the citizens is their right to vote and maintain the fair establishment of democracy in India.

Not only that, but the system of democracy in India also gives every citizen the right to form a political party and participate in the elections. As you can see, the democracy in India focuses more on its common people than its ruling party.

Importance and Need of Democracy in India:

But why has the democracy in India gained so much hype globally? Well, with the second largest population in the world, we would have been a mess, if it were not for the democracy in India. There are people from so many religions, castes, and creeds that incorporating the system of democracy in India was the only way out to maintain peace in the country.

With so much cultural and religious diversity, democracy in India protects the citizens from unjustified partialities and favoritism. Democracy in India gives equal rights and freedom to every person regardless of their beliefs and standard of living.

The scheduled caste and scheduled tribes in our country had been out casted from the main society since ages. Democracy in India makes sure that they get as many opportunities and support from us as anyone else needs to grow and progress in life.

And to be honest, it’s not just the tribes and castes, in fact, in the absence of democracy in India, there would be so many disparities on gender and income levels. The allegedly weaker and less privileged sections of society including women, transgender, and physically handicapped would be mere space fillers in the country. Democracy in India empowers them with full rights and freedom of speech as well.

Types and Forms of Democracy in India:

Basically, there are two types of Democratic system practiced in the world. The same holds true in the context of our nation also. These two types of democratic systems are direct democracy and indirect democracy.

First, we will talk about direct democracy. In this kind of system, people directly participate in the process of picking their leaders. In fact, they are physically present during the whole process and collectively announce the name of their leader. As you can see, such kind of method is not feasible in the case of a large population. This is the reason why direct democracy in India has disappeared over the years. If at all, it is only followed in small villages and panchayat.

The second type of democracy is indirect democracy. The indirect democracy in India is the most popular alternative to form the government in the country. In this system, instead of getting involved directly, citizens of the nation participate indirectly in the process of electing their leaders. The biggest way to practice indirect democracy in India is by giving the votes during the election.

In the case of indirect democracy, the political parties pick a handful of their worthiest members and help them stand and fight in the elections. The common public gets to vote in favor of their favorite political leader. The one who gets the highest votes becomes the ruling minister in the respective region.

Democracy in India (Reality and Expectations):

Although ideally, all the procedures involved in the indirect democracy in India sound flawless, the ground reality is something else. Incorporating laws, in theory, is much easier than following in practical life. Same is the story with our country.

No matter how much we claim to have a fair and transparent system of democracy in India, we must admit that there are plenty of loopholes in reality. For instance, voting is done through Electronic voting machines (EVM).

The EVM topic has been the talk of the town for a while in India, especially during the recent elections. Allegedly, the ruling parties have been accused of interfering with the machines which led to a huge scam. In other words, it can be called nothing but a great dishonor to the indirect democracy in India.

Apart from that, we have a long history of violence and terror in the common public spread by the political parties, right before the major elections. This kind of shameful threating is specifically true in case of villages and small towns where people are made to vote at gunpoint for a particular party.

Moreover, democracy in India gives everyone equal rights to participate in the elections and in the process of voting. However, these right have been hampered on many occasions. A few years ago, women candidates in the political parties were not taken seriously. Even if they fought in the elections and won, their decision making was mainly carried out either by their husbands or by other political leaders in the same party.

The road to democracy in India has been uneven and tricky for the trans-genders as well. It wasn’t much before when they were crashed and killed just for trying to attempt and enter the political arena of the country.

That being said, things are changing at a considerable pace and for the better. There are more openness and acceptance in terms of people from other genders and age groups. The Election Commission is following strict measures to ensure a clean and fair system of democracy in India.

Democracy , Democracy in India , Political System

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UPSC Essay Topic wise Question Papers of last 31 years (1993-2023) for Civil Services IAS/IPS Exam Free Download

In the UPSC mains examination, essay paper is worth 250 marks and three hours. Here is the topic wise questions from the earlier years for the benefit of civil service IAS IPS aspirants.

1.1 India Since Independence

1.2 federalism, decentralization, 1.3 administration, 1.4 judiciary, 1.5 poverty, social justice, 1.6 indian society, culture and values, 1.7 media, tv & cinema, literature, 2.1 growth vs development, 2.2 environment vs development, 2.4 sectors of economy, 3.1 values in education, 3.2 scheme implementation, 3.3 higher education, 4.1 character, honesty, ethics, 4.2 knowledge, 4.3 compassion, 4.4 truth and reality, 4.5 youth, discipline, 4.6 towards excellence, 5.1 @national politics, 5.2 @world / quote type, 5.3 empowerment overall, 5.4 compared to men, 6.1 globalization, 6.2 international org./ bilateral, 6.3 security, 6.4 history, 7.1 science and religion, 7.2 science and education, 7.3 computer and internet, 7.4 sci-tech: others, appendix: linear paper of upsc essay 2023, appendix: linear paper of upsc essay 2022, appendix: model answer pe free lecture & powerpoint, appendix: syllabus of essay paper in upsc, 1 india: democracy, administration, society, culture.

  • Is the Colonial mentality hindering India’s Success? -2013
  • In the context of Gandhiji’s views on the matter, explore, on an evolutionary scale, the terms ‘Swadhinata’, ‘Swaraj’ and ‘Dharmarajya’. Critically comment on their contemporary relevance to Indian democracy -2012
  • Dreams which should not let India sleep. -2015
  • Why should we be proud of being Indians? -2000
  • Whither Indian democracy? -1995
  • How far has democracy in India delivered the goods? -2003
  • What we have not learnt during fifty years of independence. -1997
  • What have we gained from our democratic set-up? -2001
  • My vision of India in 2001 a.d. -1993
  • Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India. -2017
  • Water disputes between States in federal India. -2016
  • Cooperative federalism : Myth or reality. -2016
  • Creation of smaller states and the consequent administrative, economic and developmental implication -2011
  • Evaluation of panchayati raj system in India from the point of view of eradication of power to people. -2007
  • Water resources should be under the control of the central government. -2004
  • The language problem in India: its past, present and prospects. -1998
  • There are better practices to “best practices”. -2021
  • How should a civil servant conduct himself? -2003
  • Politics without ethics is a disaster. -1995
  • The VIP cult is a bane of Indian democracy -1996
  • Need for transparency in public administration -1996
  • The country’s need for a better disaster management system. -2000
  • Politics, bureaucracy and business – fatal triangle. -1994
  • We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws. -2017
  • Justice must reach the poor -2005
  • Judicial activism and Indian democracy. -2004
  • Judicial activism. -1997
  • A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (- जिस समाज में अधिक न्याय होता है उस समाज को दान की कम आवश्यकता होती है।) – 2023
  • There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless (बिना आर्थिक समृद्धि के सामाजिक न्याय नहीं हो सकता, किन्तु बिना सामाजिक न्याय के आर्थिक समृद्धि निरर्थक है ) -2020
  • Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness. -2019
  • The focus of health care is increasingly getting skewed towards the ‘haves’ of our society. -2009
  • Food security for sustainable national development -2005
  • Reservation, politics and empowerment. -1999
  • Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have (जो हम है, वह संस्कार; जो हमारे पास है, वह सभ्यता ) -2020
  • Indian culture today: a myth or a reality? -2000
  • Modernism and our traditional socio-ethical values. -2000
  • The composite culture of India. -1998
  • The Indian society at the crossroads. -1994
  • From traditional Indian philanthropy to the gates-buffet model-a natural progression or a paradigm shift? -2010
  • New cults and godmen: a threat to traditional religion -1996
  • Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy. -2019
  • Responsibility of media in a democracy. -2002
  • Role of media in good governance -2008
  • Does Indian cinema shape our popular culture or merely reflect it? -2011
  • How has satellite television brought about cultural change in Indian mindsets? -2007
  • Is sting operation an invasion on privacy? -2014
  • Mass media and cultural invasion. -1999
  • The misinterpretation and misuse of freedom in India. -1998
  • Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world (कवि संसार के अनधिकृत रूप से विधायक होते हैं) – 2022

2 Economy, Development

  • Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere. -2018
  • Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality. -2016
  • Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare. -2016
  • Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms. -2016
  • Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. -2015
  • Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country? -2014
  • GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the wellbeing of a country-2013
  • Can capitalism bring inclusive growth? -2015
  • Resource management in the Indian context. -1999
  • Economic growth without distributive justice is bound to breed violence. -1993
  • Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence (आर्थिक समृद्धि हासिल करने के मामले में वन सर्वोत्तम प्रतिमान होते हैं।) – 2022
  • Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India. -2018
  • Should a moratorium be imposed on all fresh mining in tribal areas of the country? -2010
  • Urbanisation and its hazards -2008
  • Protection of ecology and environment is essential for sustained economic development. -2006
  • Urbanization is a blessing in disguise. -1997
  • Ecological considerations need not hamper development. -1993
  • Globalization would finish small-scale industries in India. -2006
  • Multinational corporations – saviours or saboteurs -1994
  • Special economic zone: boon or bane -2008
  • Is the criticism that the ‘Public-Private-Partnership’ (PPP) model for development is more of a bane than a boon in the Indian context, justified ?-2012
  • Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India. -2017
  • BPO boom in India. -2007
  • Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India? -2014
  • Are our traditional handicrafts doomed to a slow death? -2009

3 Education

  • Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in – school. (- शिक्षा वह है जो विद्यालय में विधालय में सीखी गई बातों को भूल जाने के बाद भी शेष रह जाती है।)
  • Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms. -2017
  • Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man more clever devil-2015
  • Independent thinking should be encouraged right form the childhood. -2007
  • Are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress? -2014
  • Irrelevance of the classroom. -2001
  • Is the growing level of competition good for the youth? -2014
  • Literacy is growing very fast, but there is no corresponding growth in education. -1996
  • Is an egalitarian society possible by educating the masses ? -2008
  • What is real education? -2005
  • “Education for all” campaign in India: myth or reality. -2006
  • Restructuring of Indian education system. -1995
  • Privatization of higher education in India. -2002
  • Credit – based higher education system – status, opportunities and challenges -2011

4 Quote based, Philosophy, Ethics

  • A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities (हर असमंजस के लिए मुस्कराहट ही चुनिन्दा साधन है) – 2022
  • Philosophy of wantlessness is a Utopian, while materialism is a chimera. -2021
  • Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me. -2021
  • Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication (सरलता चरम परिष्करण है ) -2020
  • Ships don’t sink because of water around them ships sink because of water that gets into them (जहाज अपने चारों तरफ के पानी के वजह से नहीं डूबा करते, जहाज पानी के अंदर समां जाने की वजह से डूबता हैं ) -2020
  • Life is a long journey between being human and being humane.  (मनुष्य होने और मानव बनने के बीच का लम्बा सफर ही जीवन है)-2020
  • Values are not what humanity is, but what humanity ought to be -2019
  • Best for an individual is not necessarily best for the society -2019
  • Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success -2019
  • Wisdom finds truth -2019
  • A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both. -2018
  • Customary morality cannot be a guide to modem file. -2018
  • Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed. -2016
  • Character of an institution is reflected in its leader. -2015
  • With greater power comes greater responsibility. -2014
  • Words are sharper than the two-edged sword. -2014
  • Attitude makes, habit makes character and character makes a man. -2007
  • He would reigns within himself and folds his passions and desires and fears is more than a king. -1993
  • Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (- सोच एक खेल की तरह है, यह तब तक शुरू नहीं होता है जब तक कि एक विपरीत टीम/पक्ष न हो।) – 2023
  • Mathematics is the music of reason. (- गणित ज्ञान का संगीत है।) – 2023
  • The real is rational and the rational is real. -2021
  • Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self (विचारपरक संकल्प स्वयं के शांतचित्त रहने का उत्प्रेरक है )-2020
  • ‘The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values. -2018
  • A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge. -2018
  • There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so. -2003
  • Disinterested intellectual curiosity is the lifeblood of civilisation. -1995
  • Joy is the simplest form of gratitude. -2017
  • Compassion is the basic of all morality of the world -1993
  • Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole. -2015
  • Be the change you want to see in others (Gandhi)-2013
  • Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right (केवल इसलिए कि आपके पास विकल्प हैं, इसका यह अर्थ कदापि नहीं है कि उनमें से किसी को भी ठीक होना ही होगा) – 2022
  • Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it. -2018
  • Truth is lived, not taught -1996
  • When money speaks, the truth is silent. -1995
  • Search for truth can only be a spiritual problem. -2002
  • The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining (छप्पर मरम्मत करने का समय तभी होता है, जब धूप खिली हुई हो) – 2022
  • You cannot step twice in the same river (आप उसी नदी में दोबारा नहीं उतर सकते) – 2022
  • Discipline means success, anarchy means ruin -2008
  • Youth is a blunder, manhood a struggle, old age a regret -1994
  • If youth knew, if age could. -2002
  • Youth culture today. -1999
  • Fifty Golds in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India? -2014
  • Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (- दूरदर्शी निर्णय तभी लिए जाते है अंतर्ज्ञान और तर्क का परस्पर मेल होता है।) – 2023
  • Not all who wander are lost. (- भटकने वाले सभी गुम नहीं हो जाते।) – 2023
  • Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane (- रचनात्मकता की प्रेरणा अलौकिक ता में चमत्कार ढूंढने के प्रयास से उपजति है) – 2023
  • A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for (जहाज बन्दरगाह के भीतर सुरक्षित होता है, परन्तु इसके लिए तो वह होता नहीं है) – 2022
  • Quick but steady wins the race. -2015
  • Useless life is an early death. -1994
  • Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds. -1995
  • The paths of glory lead but to the grave. -2002
  • The pursuit of excellence. -2001

5 Women empowerment

  • Greater political power alone will not improve women’s plight. -1997
  • Women’s reservation bill would usher in empowerment for women in India. -2006
  • The new emerging women power: the ground realities. -1995
  • Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world. -2021
  • If women ruled the world -2005
  • The hand that rocks the cradle -2005
  • Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality (पितृ-सत्ता की व्यवस्था नजर मैं बहुत काम आने के बावजूद सामाजिक विषमता की सबसे प्रभावी संरचना है) -2020
  • Fulfilment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth. -2017
  • If development is not engendered, it is endangered. -2016
  • Whither women’s emancipation? -2004
  • Empowerment alone cannot help our women. -2001
  • Women empowerment: challenges and prospects. -1999
  • Woman is god’s best creation. -1998
  • Men have failed: let women take over. -1993
  • Managing work and home – is the Indian working woman getting a fair deal ?-2012

6 International issues, Internal Security, History

  • South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities. -2019
  • Modernisation and westernisation are not identical concepts. -1994
  • ‘globalization’ vs. ‘nationalism’ -2009
  • National identity and patriotism -2008
  • Globalizations and its impact on Indian culture. -2004
  • The masks of new imperialism. -2003
  • As civilization advances culture declines. -2003
  • The implications of globalization for India. -2000
  • My vision of an ideal world order. -2001
  • India’s contribution to world wisdom. -1998
  • The world of the twenty-first century. -1998
  • Preparedness of our society for India’s global leadership role. -2010
  • Technology as the silent factor in international relations (अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संबंधों मैं मौन करक के रूप मैं प्रौद्योगिकी) -2020
  • Has the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world ? -2017
  • Restructuring of UNO reflect present realities -1996
  • The global order: political and economic -1993
  • India’s role in promoting ASEAN co-operation. -2004
  • Importance of Indo-US nuclear agreement -2006
  • Management of Indian border dispute is a complex task. -2018
  • In the Indian context , both human intelligence and technical intelligence are crucial in combating terrorism -2011
  • Are we a ‘soft’ state ? -2009
  • Good fences make good neighbours -2009
  • Is autonomy the best answer to combat balkanization? -2007
  • Terrorism and world peace -2005
  • True religion cannot be misused. -1997
  • History repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as farce. -2021
  • Geography may remain the same ; history need not. -2010

7 Science-Technology

  • Spirituality and scientific temper. -2003
  • Science and Mysticism : Are they compatible ?-2012
  • What is research, but a blind date with knowledge! -2021
  • Modern technological education and human values. -2002
  • Value-based science and education. -1999
  • The march of science and the erosion of human values. -2001
  • The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced. -2021
  • Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling. -2019
  • ‘Social media’ is inherently a selfish medium. -2017
  • Cyberspace and Internet : Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run -2016
  • Increasing computerization would lead to the creation of a dehumanized society. -2006
  • The cyberworld: its charms and challenges. -2000
  • Computer: the harbinger of silent revolution. -1993
  • Technology cannot replace manpower. -2015
  • Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation-2013
  • The modern doctor and his patients. -1997
  • The lure of space. -2004

Section-A (write any one)

  • Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (- सोच एक खेल की तरह है, यह तब तक शुरू नहीं होता है जब तक कि एक विपरीत टीम/पक्ष न हो।)
  • Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (- दूरदर्शी निर्णय तभी लिए जाते है अंतर्ज्ञान और तर्क का परस्पर मेल होता है।)
  • Not all who wander are lost. (- भटकने वाले सभी गुम नहीं हो जाते।)
  • Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane (- रचनात्मकता की प्रेरणा अलौकिक ता में चमत्कार ढूंढने के प्रयास से उपजति है)

Section-B (write any one)

  • Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines. (-लड़कियां बंदिशों के तथा लड़के अपेक्षा के बोझ तले दबे हुए होते हैं दोनों ही समान रूप से हानिकारक व्यवस्थाएं हैं।)
  • Mathematics is the music of reason. (- गणित ज्ञान का संगीत है।)
  • A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (- जिस समाज में अधिक न्याय होता है उस समाज को दान की कम आवश्यकता होती है।)

Answer one-one essay from each section in 1000-1200 words

  • History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man (इतिहास वैज्ञानिक मनुष्य के रूमानी मनुष्य पर विजय हासिल करने का एक सिलसिला है।) – 2022
  • A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for (जहाज बन्दरगाह के भीतर सुरक्षित होता है, परन्तु इसके लिए तो वह होता नहीं है) & 2022
  • Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right (केवल इसलिए कि आपके पास विकल्प हैं, इसका यह अर्थ कदापि नहीं है कि उनमें से किसी को भी ठीक होना ही होगा) – 2022

Essay: Candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics. They will be expected to keep closely to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in orderly fashion, and to write concisely. Credit will be given for effective and exact expression.

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Media: The Fourth Foundation Of Democracy

  • Last Updated : 10-Feb-2024
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Trial from the media:

  • Trial by the press is a term that became popular in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. It explains the influence of television and newspaper coverage on the credibility of an individual by establishing a widespread impression of guilt or innocence before, or after, a court of law verdict.
  • The trial by the media has been criticised by different Judges of the Court because it contributes to psychological variance while giving the judgement.
  • Media trial is against the right to fair trial; Jasleen Kaur , a Delhi woman, for example, posted a picture of a man, Sarvjeet Singh , on Facebook in 2015 and accused him of sexual harassment. Four years later, the Delhi Court held the man innocent and acquitted him of all the charges.

The fourth pillar of democracy is the media:

  • In keeping democracy alive and thriving, the media plays an important role. It is a connecting link between government and people in a way that provides citizens with knowledge about government acts, policies and inefficiencies.
  • As a fourth pillar, the media plays an important part in achieving the true meaning of democracy.

The media's role in linking government and citizens:

What is press freedom.

  • Freedom of the press has been regarded in India as part of the freedom of speech and expression guaranteed by the Constitution under Article 19(1)(a).
  • The limits on "freedom of expression and speech" also extend to "freedom of the press and the media."
  • Article 19(2), on the following grounds, offers reasonable restrictions such as India’s sovereignty and dignity, State protection, public order, decency, or morality, or in connection with court contempt and defamation.

Why is press freedom necessary?

  • It serves as a check on administrators and governments.
  • A free press has a responsibility to lift its voice against any social disorder or evil.
  • It works towards strengthening a nation's sovereignty and dignity.
  • It helps to create an atmosphere where peace and harmony can be cultivated by the country's people.
  • A free press is essential to a democratic society.
  • The press offers the forum for the hearing of a multitude of voices.
  • At the national, regional and local levels media is the public’s watchdog as well as it is also an activist and guardian as well as an educator and entertainer.
  • In India, the media has played a crucial role in providing people with knowledge about social and economic ills.

Verdicts of the Supreme Court on freedom of speech:

  • The Supreme Court recognised in Romesh Thapar vs. the State of Madras that "Freedom of expression and the press is the cornerstone of all democratic organisations."
  • In Indian Express Newspapers v. Union of India, the Supreme Court emphasized the importance of freedom of the press in these words:
  • In Tata Press Ltd. V. Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd. the Supreme Court held that a commercial advertisement or commercial speech was also a part of the freedom of speech and expression.

What needs to be done to protect press freedom?

  • The "Upholder and Guardian of the Constitution" is the Supreme Court. An independent judiciary that upholds the constitutional guarantee of media freedom is an important safeguard for this fundamental right.
  • Media self-regulation along with strong institutions such as media ombudsman as well as complaints and appeals committees, make it possible for ethics to be adhered to.
  • To give the media fair play and to check its arbitrariness at the same time, a regulatory body should be formed comprising both media individuals and government bodies.
  • Reform should come from senior editors and journalists in the media particularly. They should begin to reveal instances of fake news, and conflicts of interest, and make press operations more open.
  • There is also a need for legislative support for the PCI (Press Council of India) to give it more regulatory authority.

What are the problems faced by the Indian media today?

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UPSC Essay Topics - Important Essay Topics for UPSC Mains 2023

By vajiram & ravi.

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Understanding UPSC Essay Topics holds significant importance as it evaluates the candidate's ability to analyse, present arguments, and communicate effectively. In this article, we will explore the diverse range of UPSC essay topics, their significance, and essential tips to excel in this section. Get ready to enhance your writing and analytical skills and make a strong impression on the evaluators with well-crafted essays.

UPSC Essay Paper

The Essay paper in the UPSC Mains examination requires candidates to write multiple essays , each on a different topic, chosen from a given list of options. The essay topics for UPSC cover a wide range of issues, including social, economic, political, cultural, and philosophical aspects, both national and international.

The essay paper holds significant weightage in the UPSC Mains examination, contributing 250 marks out of the total 1750 marks . Scoring well in this section can have a considerable impact on the overall ranking and selection for the coveted civil services.

Weekly UPSC Essay Topics By Vajiram & Ravi

The UPSC Essay Paper is an opportunity for candidates to demonstrate their proficiency in expressing ideas and analysing complex issues. Vajiram & Ravi Pensive-Weekly Essay Writing Programme provides you with two Essay Topics every Saturday based on the previous year's question papers and the changing trends analysis. You can submit your Essay for peer evaluation on vajiramandravi.com. This will help you nourish your writing skills, give you clarity of thought, and build the capacity to express opinions in a logical and coherent manner.

Important Essay Topics for UPSC 2023

The purpose of the essay paper is to assess the candidate's ability to critically analyse a topic, present well-structured arguments, and communicate their ideas effectively. It also evaluates their knowledge of various issues, their clarity of thought, and their capacity to express opinions in a logical and coherent manner.

Some of the Important Essay Topics to prepare for the UPSC Mains Examination 2023 are:

  • Gender Equality
  • Environment/Urbanization
  • Economic Growth
  • Federalism/Decentralization
  • Agriculture
  • Economics 

UPSC Essay Topics on Philosophy

Every year, UPSC typically provides you with two or more essay topics centred around philosophical thoughts, Indian philosophical schools, or quotes from notable personalities. To effectively address these philosophical topics, you should refer to Philosophy Books to gain a foundational understanding. Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics on Philosophy :

  • Everything comes to him, who hustles while he waits.
  • We are always blind as we want to be.
  • You cannot step twice in the same river.
  • A disciplined mind brings happiness.
  • The price of Greatness is Responsibility.
  • People would rather Believe than Know.
  • Mind - A beautiful Servant? Or a dangerous Master?

UPSC Essay Topics on Art and Culture

The UPSC Essay Topics related to Indian society, art, and culture cover a wide range of subjects, offering great diversity. To gain knowledge about the static content on these topics, you should rely on fundamental books on society, as recommended for the exam. Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics on Indian Art and Culture :

  • Culture changes with economic development.
  • Culture is what we are, Civilization is what we have.
  • Social reform is a myth if places of worship are open only to all castes and not to all genders.
  • Impact of Globalization on Indian Art and Culture.
  • Caste System - India’s Enduring Curse.
  • Godmen - A Threat to Indian Art and Culture?

UPSC Essay Topics on Science and Technology

UPSC essay topics on Science and Technology can largely be addressed through current affairs. You may also benefit from consulting a Science and Technology Book for UPSC to compose a comprehensive and well-rounded essay. Here are some UPSC Essay Topics on Science and Technology:

  • Deglobalisation is good for the world.
  • Science is organised Knowledge. Wisdom is Organised life.
  • Technology is a Weapon against Poverty.
  • Prioritising Education Technology for Global Growth.
  • Technology is the silent factor in International Relations.
  • Scientific and Technological Progress cannot be equated with Human Progress.

UPSC Essay Topics on Education

Education stands as one of the preferred UPSC Essay Topics, with an essay related to this subject often appearing in the paper each year. To tackle this topic effectively, you should stay abreast of Current Affairs , incorporating significant changes and advancements in the field. Let's explore some of the Essay topics for UPSC centred around education:

  • Self Education is a lifelong curiosity.
  • Education Breeds Peace.
  • Education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance.
  • Education must also train one for quick, resolute and effective thinking.
  • Schooling is not Education.

UPSC Essay Topics on Polity and Governance

To comprehensively address Polity and Governance topics, you should acquire fundamental knowledge from Polity Books for UPSC and Current Affairs. These resources offer static information about relevant issues and their historical context, which proves valuable while writing UPSC Essay Topics on Polity. Here are some Essay Topics on Polity and Governance:

  • The Role of Politics in Development.
  • Should Youth in India Consider Politics as a Career?
  • Art, Freedom and Creativity will change society faster than politics.
  • The politics of Identity is the Politics of the Weak.
  • People should not be afraid of their Government. The Government should be afraid of its people.
  • Government Surveillance - Good or Bad?

UPSC Essay Topics on Economy

Essays concerning economic growth are frequently included in the Essay Paper. To tackle these topics effectively, you should refer to Economy Notes for UPSC to gain a comprehensive understanding. Once the fundamentals are grasped, you can enhance their essays by incorporating examples, data, and statistics to create a multidimensional perspective. Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics on Economy:

  • We don't have to sacrifice a Strong Economy for a Healthy Environment.
  • India, a $5 trillion Economy - Dream or Reality?
  • Digital Economy: A leveller or a source of Economic Inequality?
  • Innovation is the key determinant of social welfare and economic growth.
  • Labour Reforms in India and its Role in Economic Growth.

UPSC Essay Topics on Social Issues

Social issues are a significant aspect of the UPSC essay paper, reflecting the candidates' understanding of societal challenges and their ability to propose viable solutions. These essays provide a platform for candidates to analyse, critique, and suggest measures for pressing social concerns. Topics related to social issues in the UPSC Essay paper may include:

  • Inclusivity and Plurality are the hallmarks of a Peaceful Society.
  • A Gender-sensitive Indian Society is a prerequisite for Women and Child Empowerment.
  • The weaker sections of Indian Society - are their Rights and Access to Justice getting Better?

Previous Year UPSC Essay Topics

Practising previous year's essay topics will help you become familiar with the UPSC exam pattern , word limit, and the types of essay questions frequently asked in the Mains Examination. Analysing past essay topics will also allow you to identify recurring themes and trends, enabling you to prioritise their preparation accordingly. Regular practice with past essay topics will instil confidence in you, helping you feel more comfortable and prepared for the actual exam.

  • Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence.
  • Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world.
  • History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man.
  • A ship in the harbour is safe, but that is not what a ship is for.
  • The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.
  • A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities.
  • Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right.

Tips to Excel in UPSC Essay Paper

  • Understand the Topics: Thoroughly comprehend the essay topics, including the keywords and instructions. Choose a topic that aligns with your strengths and interests.
  • Plan and Structure: Devote some time to plan your essay. Create an outline and organise your thoughts in a structured manner, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
  • Be Objective: Present balanced arguments and avoid a biased or one-sided approach. Consider multiple perspectives and present a holistic view.
  • Provide Examples and Evidence: Support your arguments with relevant examples, data, quotes and evidence to strengthen your essay.
  • Maintain Clarity: Write in a clear and concise manner. Use simple language and avoid jargon or overly complex vocabulary.
  • Practice Regularly: Regular practice is essential to improve Essay writing skills. Write essays on diverse topics to enhance your versatility.
  • Time Management: Allocate appropriate time for planning, writing, and revising each essay to manage time effectively during the examination.
  • Revise and Edit: Review your essays for coherence, grammar, and structure. Make necessary edits to refine your work.

FAQs on UPSC Essay Topics

What are the important UPSC Essay Topics?

Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics asked in Mains Examination previously:

  • Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have.
  • Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
  • What is research but a blind date with knowledge?
  • Best for an individual is not necessarily best for society.
  • Wisdom finds truth.
  • Ships don’t sink because of water around them, ships sink because of water that gets into them.
  • Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality.
  • Technology as the silent factor in international relations.

How do I Prepare for the UPSC Essay?

To prepare for the UPSC essay, focus on understanding the essay syllabus and past topics to identify recurring themes. Regularly practise writing essays on various topics to improve your writing skills and time management. Structure your essays with a clear introduction, main body, and conclusion.

Which is the best source to practise UPSC Essay Topics?

The best sources to prepare Essay for UPSC include official UPSC materials, newspapers, and magazines like The Hindu, Yojana , and Kurukshetra for current affairs, standard books on diverse subjects, government reports and publications, online platforms like PIB and PRS India, UPSC previous year papers for understanding the exam pattern, and regular practice of essay writing on various topics.

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[Mission 2024] INSIGHTS DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS + PIB SUMMARY 7 May 2024

InstaLinks :  Insta Links help you think beyond the issue but relevant to the issue from UPSC prelims and Mains exam point of view. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background. This helps you study a topic holistically and add new dimensions to every current event to help you think analytically.

Table of Contents:

GS Paper 2:

PRS Legislative Research’s Annual Review of State Laws 2023

Social construction of technology theory, facts for prelims (ffp), mullaperiyar dam issue, supreme court bar association, pradhan mantri jan arogya yojana (pmjay), micro, small, and medium enterprises (msmes), thirthahalli arecanut, bhadra tiger reserve, lipulekh, limpiyadhura, and kalapani (nepal).

  Syllabus: Parliament and State legislature

  Context: PRS Legislative Research  (an Indian non-profit organisation established in September 2005 as an independent research institute) has released its “ Annual Review of State Laws 2023,” providing a detailed analysis of State legislatures’ performance across India.

Status of Bills Passed by States:

On average, states passed 18 bills each in 2023 . Maharashtra passed 49 bills, while Delhi and Puducherry passed only 2 each.

Issues with the Working of the State Legislatures:

Committee recommendations for improving State Assembly functioning:

  • Emphasized timely decisions on bills by establishing a legislative framework with time limits for the Governor’s assent.
  • Recommended that State Finance Commission recommendations be considered in legislative budget discussions to ensure thorough debates.
  • Recommended subjecting parliamentarians/assembly members to public scrutiny through a parliamentary ombudsman.
  • Suggested minimum annual meeting requirements for State Legislatures based on the number of members.

Way forward:

  • Strengthening PAC: Standardize PAC operations with clear guidelines on sitting frequency, reporting requirements, and timelines.
  • Expedited Decision-Making : Mandate the Governor to provide transparent and specific reasons for any delay in granting assent.
  • Legislative Review : Advocate for thorough discussions and debates on budgets before passage, with consideration of State Finance Commission recommendations.
  • Strengthen the role of State Finance Commissions in legislative budget discussions.
  • Establish minimum session days for the assemblies to enhance legislative functioning.

Conclusion:

These recommendations aim to standardize PAC operations, expedite decision-making processes, promote transparency in legislative functioning, and ensure substantive discussions on important matters before their passage in the State Assemblies.

About the State Legislative Assembly (also known as Vidhan Sabha)  

It is the primary legislative body in Indian states and certain union territories. It comprises directly elected Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) serving 5-year terms . In 22 states and 3 union territories , it’s unicameral , while in 6 states, it’s the lower house of a bicameral legislature. Each assembly must have 60 to 500 members , with exceptions granted by Parliament. The assembly can be dissolved in emergencies, by the Governor on the Chief Minister’s request, or by a motion of no confidence against the ruling majority.

Mains Link:

Discuss the essential conditions for the exercise of the legislative powers by the Governor. Discuss the legality of the re-promulgation of ordinances by the Governor without placing them before the Legislature. (UPSC 2022)

Effectiveness of the government system at various levels and people’s participation in the governance system are interdependent”. Discuss their relationship in the context of India. (UPSC 2016)

Public expenditure management is a challenge to the Government of India in the context of budget-making during the post-liberalization period. Clarify it. (UPSC 2019)

Prelims Link:

Which of the following are the discretionary powers given to the Governor of a State? (UPSC 2014)

  • Sending a report to the President of India for imposing the President’s rule
  • Appointing the Ministers
  • Reserving certain bills passed by the State Legislature for consideration by the President of India
  • Making the rules to conduct the business of the State Government

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

What is SCOT Theory?

Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) theory posits that technological development is influenced by social factors rather than being solely driven by inherent technological capabilities.

It emphasizes that technologies are not inherently good or bad but are shaped by the values, interests, and needs of society . SCOT examines how various social groups influence the design, development, and implementation of technologies, highlighting the role of power dynamics, cultural norms, and user preferences in shaping technological outcomes.

Usage : The theory can be used in Indian society/Sociology to demonstrate the interaction of Society with evolving technology.

  Context: Tamil Nadu accuses Kerala of obstructing Mullaperiyar dam work while expressing safety concerns. Kerala allegedly delays routine maintenance, hindering strengthening efforts.

About the Dam:

The Mullaperiyar Dam , a 126-year-old structure in Kerala’s Idukki district , is owned and maintained by Tamil Nadu for various purposes like irrigation and hydro-power.

Disputes over its safety and water levels have led to ongoing litigation. While the Supreme Court allowed a rise in water levels to 142 feet in 2014 , Kerala has advocated for decommissioning the dam and building a new one. Tamil Nadu seeks to complete strengthening work and restore levels to 152 feet .

essay on democracy in india upsc

About the Periyar River :

The Periyar River, stretching 244 km, is Kerala’s longest river , earning the title “ Lifeline of Kerala” due to its perennial flow. Originating from the Sivagiri hills in Tamil Nadu and passing through Periyar National Park , its main tributaries include Muthirapuzha, Mullayar, Cheruthoni, and Perinjankutti

  Context: The Supreme Court has reserved one-third of the seats in the Supreme Court Bar Association’s executive committee for women .

  • This means at least 3 out of 9 positions in the committee and 2 of 6 senior executive member posts will be reserved for women.

Status of women in the higher judiciary:  

Out of 268 judges ever appointed in the Supreme Court since independence, only 11 have been women . Justice Fathima Beevi was the first woman judge appointed to the Supreme Court in 1989. According to the India Justice Report 2022 , women make up 35% of judges in subordinate courts but only 13% in High Courts. Additionally, only 15% of practising lawyers are women.

The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) is an Indian bar association representing practising lawyers of the Supreme Court of India.

Source: TOI

  Context: A study in Chhattisgarh revealed that despite the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), out-of-pocket spending (OOPE) on health remains high, particularly in private hospitals, due to the widespread practice of dual billing

PMJAY Overview:

  • Ministry : Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
  • Genesis : Launched in 2018 as part of Ayushman Bharat scheme
  • Benefit : Offers Rs. 5 lakhs/year/family for secondary and tertiary care in public and private hospitals, without restrictions on family size, age, or gender.
  • Coverage : Includes pre and post-hospitalization expenses, covering all pre-existing medical conditions.

Challenges with PMJAY Implementation:  

  • High Out-of-Pocket Spending : Despite PMJAY, significant out-of-pocket expenditure persists, particularly in private hospitals.
  • Dual Billing : Private hospitals engage in dual billing, charging patients and claiming reimbursement from the government, leading to fraudulent practices.
  • Disparities in Cost : Medical expenditure in private hospitals is substantially higher compared to public hospitals, exacerbating financial burdens on patients.
  • Catastrophic Health Expenditure : Utilization of private hospitals under PMJAY often results in catastrophic health expenditure for vulnerable groups.
  • Poor Regulation : Lack of effective regulation allows private hospitals to overcharge patients, undermining the affordability goal of PMJAY.
  • Limited Access for Vulnerable Groups : Vulnerable sections like scheduled tribes and women predominantly rely on public hospitals, limiting their access to private sector benefits promised by PMJAY.
  • Capacity Deficit : Some states face capacity issues with a high number of people per empanelled healthcare provider.
  • Delayed Claim Settlements : Despite clear guidelines, there are delays in settling claims.
  • Validation Control Issues : Lack of essential validation controls in beneficiary registration, with instances of linking multiple beneficiaries to a single mobile number.
  • Grievance Disposal : The delayed resolution of grievances, with only around 10% addressed within the 15-day turnaround time, as per the CAG report.
  • Whistleblower Policy Non-Adoption : Several states, including Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan, have not adopted a whistleblower policy.

  Context: A new provision in the Income-Tax Act aimed to ensure timely payments to micro, small, and medium enterprises ( MSMEs ) has led to unintended consequences .

The Finance Act 2023 introduced an amendment to the Income Tax Act , stipulating that payments owed to MSMEs must be resolved within 45 days to qualify for tax deductions .

This applies to transactions involving goods or services from MSMEs registered under the MSMED Act, 2006 . Effective from April 1, 2024, the amendment has led to unintended consequences, including large companies shifting orders to unregistered MSMEs ( to avoid tax liabilities ) and smaller entities surrendering their registration to sustain business operations. Tax experts suggest extending payment timelines to alleviate the issue.

  Context: The Tirthahalli variety of areca has been identified as the best quality among those grown in Karnataka.

About Areca        :  

The Areca palm, also known as the yellow palm or butterfly palm , is characterized by clustered slender stems and ascending leaves. Originating from Madagascar , it thrives in tropical climates and can also be grown indoors in temperate zones. It’s valued as a horticultural and commercial crop domestically and internationally.

Optimal growing conditions include temperatures between 14ºC and 36ºC, rainfall ranging from 750 mm to 4500 mm , and gravelly laterite soil.

Karnataka dominates arecanut production in India , contributing approximately 80% of the country’s output, with Kerala and Assam following suit. India imports arecanut mainly from Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Indonesia. To combat illegal imports, the government has imposed a Minimum Import Price.

Farmers face challenges such as the import of cheaper varieties , crop damage from excessive rainfall, and diseases like yellow leaf disease and fruit rot disease, leading to significant losses in recent years.

essay on democracy in india upsc

  Context: Researchers (at Sweden’s Linköping University) have successfully created a groundbreaking material called Goldene , a one-atom-thick sheet of gold , marking the first time a metal has been developed into a freestanding 2D sheet.

What is Goldene?

Goldene is a one-atom-thick sheet of gold. It marks the first instance of a metal being formulated into a freestanding 2D sheet .

Goldene is made by sandwiching silicon between titanium carbide layers , depositing gold atoms on top, and then etching away the titanium carbide layers (using a chemical called Murakami’s reagent), resulting in the creation of a free-standing, one-atom-thick layer of gold.

essay on democracy in india upsc

Applications of Goldene include:

  • Electronics : Goldene holds promise as a catalyst in electronics due to its economic viability and efficiency. It requires fewer gold atoms for the same function compared to thicker, three-dimensional gold materials. This property could potentially revolutionize electronics by reducing the amount of gold needed for electronic components.
  • Catalysis : Goldene’s unique properties make it suitable for catalytic applications, such as carbon dioxide conversion, hydrogen-generating catalysis, and selective production of value-added chemicals. Its high surface area and unique atomic structure offer advantages in catalytic reactions.
  • Hydrogen Production: Goldene could play a role in hydrogen production processes, contributing to the development of clean energy technologies.
  • Water Purification: The material’s properties may also be utilized in water purification technologies, enhancing the efficiency of water treatment processes.

Source: ScienceTech

  Context: A peptide derived from cows shows promise in treating deadly drug-resistant bacterial infections , particularly those caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae .

About the Klebsiella pneumoniae:

  It is a bacterium commonly found in the intestines , typically harmless but can cause severe infections like pneumonia , urinary tract infections, and wound infections when it enters other parts of the body. Vulnerable populations, such as seniors and those with health conditions like diabetes or cancer, are particularly at risk.

About the Peptides:

Peptides are short chains of amino acids , the building blocks of proteins, that are naturally found in the body. They are linked together by peptide bonds and play essential roles in various biological functions. Peptides can have diverse functions in the body, such as reducing inflammation, aiding in muscle building, and acting as hormones to regulate different bodily processes.

essay on democracy in india upsc

  Context: Bhadra Tiger Reserve in Chikkamagaluru is attracting more tourists, scientists, and photographers.

About Bhadra Tiger Reserve:

Situated in the Western Ghats region of Karnataka, Bhadra Tiger Reserve is unique for being nestled within several hill ranges. It has served as both an Elephant Reserve and the 25th Project Tiger Reserve of India since 1998 , boasting a substantial tiger population.

Well-drained by the river Bhadra and its tributaries , it features a variety of vegetation including dry-deciduous, moist-deciduous, shola, and semi-evergreen patches. Other Tiger Reserves in Karnataka include Bandipura , Nagarahole, Dandeli-Anshi , and Biligiriranga Tiger Reserve.

  Context: Nepal plans to introduce a new Rs 100 currency note featuring disputed territories with India, including Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani .

  • Previously, in 2020, Nepal passed its second Constitution Amendment Bill which provided legal status to its claims over these territories

India has objected to this move, considering it an “ artificial enlargement” of territorial claims .

About the territories:

Kalapani is the largest territorial dispute between Nepal and India , situated at a tri-junction with Tibet (China). The disagreement stems from the origin of River Kali, demarcated in the Treaty of Sagauli (1816) . Nepal claims the river west of Kalapani as the main River Kali, originating at Limpiyadhura or Lipulekh pass , while India argues it originates from a rivulet named Pankhagad, defining the border differently.

essay on democracy in india upsc

Daily Current Affairs + PIB Summary (7 May 2024)

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