It is easy to be awestruck by the sweeping changes that have transformed India’s political economy in recent decades. India’s economy, once rooted in autarky and socialism, has embraced market capitalism. Politics are no longer monopolised by the Congress party; instead, there is robust political competition at the national, state, and local levels. India’s society has also made great strides, as traditionally disadvantaged groups have successfully clamoured for greater political voice. These changes, paradoxically, are taking place amidst a great deal of continuity. Economic reforms are a work in progress, with the state reluctant to fully relinquish its reins.
But Indian society is full of problems, though effort is being taken to ameliorate such problems with the help of government and nongovernmental organisations. In this present book effort is being made to study the major issues that have been present in our Indian society and polity for long. The intention is to fruitfully record the happenings in the Indian society and polity from time to time.
After independence, the framers of Indian Constitution have taken initiative to find solution of problem by incorporating certain provisions in the Constitution. The ancient and medieval Indian society was full of caste discrimination. The framers of Constitution have incorporated various provisions for dalits in making them at par with others. Indian Constitution is a catalyst for social justice for weaker section of our Indian society.
Higher education for marginalised group was considered to be a nightmare. After independence for many years, weaker sections were not able to go for higher education. The enrollment for weaker section was abysmal. Right to Education Act 2009 has become a ray of hope for marginalised groups for education. Now education has become fundamental right for all Indians. All Indian, especially weaker section must get a seat in educational institution aided by government or it should be mandatory for the children below 14 years to be present in the school. Mid-day meal will serve as a catalyst for the economically backward students (children) for enrollment. Literary drive is the sole motto of the government.
Reservation in employment, education and political field has been in existence since independence. Initially, the reservation policy was for ten years. It is being extended every time for another ten years. Today, it has become an electoral ploy for political parties. It is gradually extended to Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Muslims and Marathas. Is this a means for marginalised class for upward mobility or ways to get votes from weaker sections? How long the reservation policy has to go? This book critically examines the various aspects of society namely globalisation, judicial system, caste system and social justice, etc., which form the backbone of our democracy. The book endeavours sincerely to cover extensively all the major aspects prevalent in Indian society and polity.
By Ashok Kumar
Leave Your Comment