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Source: This post is created based on the article “India got Swaraj in 1947. It must now strive for Suraj or good governance” published in Indian Express on 9th August 2022.
Syllabus: GS paper 2- Governance + GS Paper 1 – Indian history
News: It is 75 years since India got independent. Now is the time to look back and assess, the ancient values of India that have been left behind.
What are the ancient cultural ethos that present India needs to follow?
(1) Gandhi ji weaponized ahimsa or non-violence to resist the colonial tyranny of the British by making it one of the cornerstones of the freedom struggle. Many sacrificed their lives for these values. The mantra of ahimsa is rooted in the cultural and civilizational ethos of our great nation.
(2) Long-drawn freedom struggle of India teaches us the lessons of resilience and hope in difficult times. Neither invaders nor the colonizers could sever the cultural and civilizational continuity that bind us together.
(3) Cultural ethos of ancient India dearly held up the idea of equality, unity, and inclusivity.
(4) India’s ancient scriptures are filled with examples of the worship of the divine in the elements — rivers, mountains, holy plants, and trees. It encourages us to conserve nature.
What are the issues that need to be resolved?
Present India is suffering from issues like poverty, illiteracy, gender discrimination, corruption, and inequalities.
What should be done?
First, universal and affordable access to quality education and healthcare.
Second, improving rural infrastructure across the country on a fast track basis.
Third, the promotion of the mother tongue will revolutionise the educational landscape by making it more inclusive and equitable.
Fourth, conservation of environment for the future generations.
