essay on culture upsc

[Essay Topic- 5 Mains 2020] Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have.

Introduction, the distinction between “culture” and “civilization” has long been a subject of contemplation. the adage, “culture is what we are, civilization is what we have,” poignantly encapsulates this distinction, emphasizing the intangible nature of culture and the tangible manifestations of civilization., thesis statement, while culture delves into the realm of beliefs, values, and shared identities, civilization reflects the external structures, accomplishments, and artifacts that societies create and possess., crux/meaning of the essay, this essay seeks to explore the profound interplay between the inner world of culture and the external expressions of civilization, highlighting how one stems from the depths of human essence while the other showcases humanity’s achievements., different dimensions, innate vs. created: culture, being the bedrock of shared values, traditions, and beliefs, is intrinsic to a community. civilization, on the other hand, represents the external creations, such as cities, institutions, and technological advancements. shared identity vs. physical progress: culture gives a community its unique identity and cohesiveness. civilization marks the community’s progress, achievements, and innovations. continuity vs. evolution : while cultures often persist, providing a continuous link to the past, civilizations evolve, reflecting the changing times, technological advancements, and societal progress., different perspectives, the anthropologist’s view: they might delve deep into how culture shapes behaviors, rituals, and societal norms, while civilization represents the tangible milestones of societal evolution. the historian’s perspective: historians could trace the development of civilizations, linking them with the underlying cultural ethos of the times, showing the symbiotic relationship between the two. the sociologist’s lens: they might examine how culture influences social structures and how, in turn, these structures, as part of civilization, reinforce cultural norms., significance in current context, in today’s globalized world, understanding the distinction and interrelation between culture and civilization is pivotal. as societies become more interconnected, it’s crucial to appreciate the cultural ethos (what people inherently are) while engaging with their civilizational achievements (what societies have and showcase)., culture and civilization, while distinct, are deeply intertwined. one reflects the soul of a community—its beliefs, values, and shared essence—while the other showcases the community’s achievements, progress, and tangible creations. recognizing that “culture is what we are, and civilization is what we have” allows for a deeper appreciation of societies, emphasizing both their inherent identities and their external accomplishments., related posts:.

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Important Essay Topics for UPSC Mains 2024, Previous Year Topics

by Vajiram & Ravi

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 2024

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 2024

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 2024 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 Mains 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.

UPSC Essay Topics 2024 FAQs

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.

© 2024 Vajiram & Ravi. All rights reserved

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How to study Indian culture for UPSC Civil Services Exam?

Last updated on November 7, 2023 by ClearIAS Team

Table of Contents

What does UPSC syllabus mention about Indian Culture?

Indian Culture based questions can be asked in Civil Services Exam – prelims and mains. As per the latest UPSC syllabus for IAS mains exam , Indian Culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature, and Architecture from ancient to modern times. The topic comes under UPSC Civil Services Mains General Studies Paper 1 .

Indian Art – Performing Arts, Visual Arts, and Literary Arts

Art can be further classified into three –

• Performing Arts
• Visual Arts

Literary Arts

Certain art forms can be a mixture of more than one of these types.

Performing Arts – Dance, Music, Theater and Puppets

1. Dances of India – Classical, Regional

Classical Dances –

• Bharatnatyam
• Also, learn the Regional Dances of India.

2. Music of India – Hindustani, Carnatic, and Regional Music

• Hindustani Classical Music
• Carnatic Classical Music
• Regional Music

Musical Instruments

(i) The Tata Vadya or Chordophones – Stringed instruments (ii) The Sushira Vadya or Aerophones – Wind instruments (iii) The Avanaddha Vadya or Membranophones – Percussion instruments (iv) The Ghana Vadya or Idiophones – Solid instruments which do not require tuning.

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3. Theatre Forms of India

• Traditional

Also, learn the Puppet Forms of India – String Puppets, Shadow Puppets, Rod Puppets and Glove Puppets.

Visual Arts – Architecture, Sculpture, and Painting

1. Indian Architecture

• Pre-historic
• Indus Civilization
• Buddhist Architecture
• Temple Architecture
• Indo-Islamic Architecture
• Modern Architecture

2. Indian Sculpture

• Buddhist Sculpture
• Gupta Sculpture
• Medieval School of Sculpture
• Modern Indian Sculpture

3. Indian Painting

• Wall Paintings of India
• Miniature Painting
• Modern Indian Painting

• Ancient Indian Literature
• Classical Sanskrit Literature
• Literature in Pali and Prakrit
• Early Dravidian Literature
• Medieval Literature
• Women Poets of Bhakti
• Other Trends in Medieval Literature
• Modern Indian Literature
• The Emergence of Nationalism
• The Literature of Nationalism, Reformism, and Revivalism
• Indian Romanticism
• The Advent of Mahatma Gandhi
• Progressive Literature
• Making of Modern Theatre
• Search for Modernity
• The Indian Literary Scene After Independence
• Dalit Literature
• Use of Mythology
• Contemporary Literature

Indian Culture – Priority Areas

As Visual Arts include architecture and Literary Arts include literature, it can be said that Indian Culture from UPSC perspective is a study of arts . There as of course other important areas like Religion and Indian Philosophies , but they should be covered separately. Refer  ClearIAS Indian History and Culture notes  for fast learning of priority areas.

Best book to study Indian Culture for IAS exam

Indian Art and Culture by Nitin Singhania covers the entire syllabus of Indian Heritage and Culture. The author has provided a wide-ranged knowledge base on Indian art, paintings, music and architecture with the help of several pictures and diagrams. The content is also supported with a plethora of questions that will help students to prepare for the examination.

• Link to buy Online: Indian Art and Culture by Nitin Singhania (English) .

Free online sources to study Indian Culture

• ClearIAS Indian History and Culture notes .
• NIOS Indian Culture.
• India.gov.in

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Chapter 1 - Culture : An Introduction - Notes, UPSC/ IAS Exam | Art, Architecture and Literature by Shahid Ali PDF Download

INTRODUCTION

The English word ‘Culture’ is derived from the Latin term ‘cult or cultus’ meaning tilling, or cultivating or refining and worship. In sum it means cultivating and refining a thing to such an extent that its end product evokes our admiration and respect. 

This is practically the same as ‘Sanskriti’ of the Sanskrit language. 

The term ‘Sanskriti’ has been derived from the root ‘ Kri (to do) of Sanskrit language. Three words came from this root ‘ Kri; prakriti ’ (basic matter or condition), ‘Sanskriti’ (refined matter or condition) and ‘vikriti’ (modified or decayed matter or condition) when ‘prakriti’ or a raw material is refined it becomes ‘Sanskriti’ and when broken or damaged it becomes ‘vikriti’.

Tilling or cultivating a thing.

Basic matter or condition.

Refined matter or condition.

Modified or decayed matter or condition.

After studying this lesson you will be able to:

• understand the concept and meaning of culture;
• establish the relationship between culture and civilization;
• Establish the link between culture and heritage;
• discuss the role and impact of culture in human life.

1.1 CONCEPT OF CULTURE

(ii) All the achievements of human beings as members of social groups can be called culture. Art, music, literature, architecture, sculpture, philosophy, religion and science can be seen as aspects of culture. However, culture also includes the customs, traditions, festivals, ways of living and one’s outlook on various issues of life.

(iii) Culture thus refers to a human-made environment which includes all the material and non-material products of group life that are transmitted from one generation to the next. There is a general agreement among social scientists that culture consists of explicit and implicit patterns of behavior acquired by human beings.

(iv) These may be transmitted through symbols, constituting the distinctive achievements of human groups, including their embodiment as artifacts. The essential core of culture thus lies in those finer ideas which are transmitted within a group-both historically derived as well as selected with their attached value. 

(v) More recently, culture denotes historically transmitted patterns of meanings embodied in symbols, by means of which people communicate, perpetuate and develop their knowledge about and express their attitudes toward life. 

(vi) Culture is the expression of our nature in our modes of living and thinking. It may be seen in our literature, in religious practices, in recreation and enjoyment. Culture has two distinctive components, namely, material and non-material. 

(vii) Material culture consists of objects that are related to the material aspect of our life such as our dress, food, and household goods. Non-material culture refers to ideas, ideals, thoughts, and beliefs.

(viii)  Culture varies from place to place and country to country. Its development is based on the historical process operating in a local, regional or national context.   For example, we differ in our ways of greeting others, our clothing, food habits, social and religious customs and practices from the West. In other words, the people of any country are characterised by their distinctive cultural traditions. 

Intext Questions

Q.1. How can you say that Culture and Sanskriti carry the same meaning? Ans. Culture’s literal meaning is to do and Sanskriti also literally means refining and cultivating.

Q.2. Fill in the blanks:

(a) All the achievements of human beings and groups can be called................ Ans. Culture

(b) Culture has two distinctive components viz. material and................ Ans. Non-material 1.2 CULTURE AND CIVILIZATION

(ii) It also includes organizing societies into politically well-defined groups working collectively for improved conditions of life in matters of food, dress, communication, and so on. Thus some groups consider themselves as civilized and look down upon others. This disposition of certain groups has even led to wars and holocausts, resulting in mass destruction of human beings.

(iii) On the other hand ‘culture’ refers to the inner being, a refinement of head  and  heart. This includes arts and sciences, music and dance and various higher pursuits of human life which are also classified as cultural activities. 

(iv) One who may be poor and wearing cheap clothes may be considered ‘uncivilized’ , but still he or she may be the most cultured person. One possessing ostentatious wealth may be considered as ‘civilized’ but he may not be cultured.

(v) Therefore, when we think of culture, we have to understand that it is different from civilization. As we have seen, culture is the ‘higher levels of inner refinement’ of a human being. Humans are not merely physical beings. They live and act at three levels: physical, mental and spiritual. 

(vi) While better ways of living socially and politically and better utilization of nature around us may be termed as civilization. This is not enough to be cultured. Only when the deeper levels of a person’s intellect and consciousness are brought into expression can we call him/her ‘cultured’. 

Intext Questions Q.1. What is the difference between culture and civilization? Ans.  Culture is what we are and civilization is what we posses or we make use of. Q.2. Give two similarities of culture and civilization. Ans.  Changes in both culture and civilization occur. Civilization is advanced state of culture.

Culture refers to the inner refinement of a person, while civilization refers to better ways of living and utilizing resources.

Culture includes arts and sciences, while civilization includes social and political organization.

Culture is about the material and non-material products of group life, while civilization is about making nature bend to fulfill human needs.

Culture is about the physical, mental, and spiritual levels of human existence, while civilization is about the physical and social aspects of human life.

1.3 CULTURE AND HERITAGE

(i) Cultural development is a  historical process . Our ancestors learnt many things from their predecessors. With the passage of time they also added to it from their own experience and gave up those which they did not consider useful. We in turn have learnt many things from our ancestors. 

(ii) As time goes we continue to add new thoughts, new ideas to those already existent and sometimes we give up some which we don’t consider useful any more. This is how culture is transmitted and carried forward from generation to next generation. 

(iv) Cultural heritage includes all those aspects or values of culture transmitted to human beings by their ancestors from generation to generation. They are cherished, protected and maintained by them with unbroken continuity and they feel proud of it.

(v) A few examples would be helpful in clarifying the concept of heritage. The Taj Mahal, Swami Narayan Temple of Gandhinagar and Delhi, Red Fort of Agra, Delhi’s Qutub Minar, Mysore Palace, Jain Temple of Dilwara (Rajasthan) Nizamuddin Aulia’s Dargah, Golden Temple of Amritsar, Gurudwara Sisganj of Delhi, Sanchi Stupa, Christian Church in Goa, India Gate etc.,  are all important places of our heritage and are to be protected by all means.

(vi) Besides the architectural creations, monuments, material artifacts, the intellectual achievements, philosophy, treasures of knowledge, scientific inventions and discoveries are also the part of heritage. 

(vii) In Indian context the contributions of Baudhayan, Aryabhatta, Bhaskaracharya in the field of Mathematics, Astronomy and Astrology; Kanad and Varahmihir in the field of Physics; Nagarjuna in the field of Chemistry, Susruta and Charak in the field of Medicines and Patanjali in the field of Yoga are profound treasures of Indian Cultural heritage. 

(viii) Culture is liable to change, but our heritage does not. 

(ix) We individuals, belonging to a culture or a particular group, may acquire or borrow certain cultural traits of other communities/cultures, but our belongingness to Indian cultural heritage will remain unchanged. 

(x)  Our Indian cultural heritage will bind us together e.g. Indian literature and scriptures namely Vedas, Upanishads Gita and Yoga System etc. have contributed a lot by way of providing right knowledge, right action, behavior and practices as complementary to the development of civilization. 

Q.1. What is cultural heritage? Ans.  Culture that we inherit from our ancestors is called our cultural heritage. Q.2. Give some examples of cultural heritage. Ans.  Taj Mahal, Red Fort of agra, Vedas, Upnishads and Gita (Architectural monuments, Treasures of knowledge, Scientific and intellectual achievements) 1.4 GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF CULTURE

Now let us discuss some general characteristics, which are common to different cultures throughout the world.

1. Culture is learned and acquired: Culture is acquired in the sense that there are certain behavior which are acquired through heredity. Individuals inherit certain qualities from their parents but socio-cultural patterns are not inherited. 

These are learnt from family members, from the group and the society in which they live. It is thus apparent that the culture of human beings is influenced by the physical and social environment through which they operate.

2. Culture is shared by a group of people:  A thought or action may be called culture if it is shared and believed or practiced by a group of people.

3. Culture is cumulative:  Different knowledge embodied in culture can be passed from one generation to another generation. More and more knowledge is added in the particular culture as the time passes by. Each may work out solution to problems in life that passes from one generation to another. This cycle remains as the particular culture goes with time.

4. Culture changes:  There is knowledge, thoughts or traditions that are lost as new cultural traits are added. There are possibilities of cultural changes within the particular culture as time passes.

5. Culture is dynamic:  No culture remains on the permanent state. Culture is changing constantly as new ideas and new techniques are added as time passes modifying or changing the old ways. This is the characteristics of culture that stems from the culture’s cumulative quality.

6. Culture gives us a range of permissible behavior patterns:  It involves how an activity should be conducted, how an individual should act appropriately.

7. Culture is diverse:  It is a system that has several mutually interdependent parts. Although these parts are separate, they are interdependent with one another forming culture as whole.

8. Culture is ideational:  Often it lays down an ideal pattern of behavior that are expected to be followed by individuals so as to gain social acceptance from the people with the same culture. 

Q.1. What is meant by permissible behavior patterns? Ans.  Culture forms an ideal pattern of behavior that is expected to be followed by individuals.

Q.2. How can you say that culture is dynamic? Ans.  Culture is changing constantly. New ideas and new techniques are added from time to time.

Culture is inherited from ancestors.

Culture is static and does not change over time.

Culture is acquired through learning and experience.

Culture is limited to a specific group of people.

1.5 IMPORTANCE OF CULTURE IN HUMAN LIFE  

(i) Culture is closely linked with life. It is not an add-on, an ornament that we as human beings can use. It is not merely a touch of colour. It is what makes us human. Without culture, there would be no humans. Culture is made up of traditions, beliefs, way of life, from the most spiritual to the most material. It gives us meaning, a way of leading our lives. Human beings are creators of culture and, at the same time, culture is what makes us human.

(ii) A fundamental element of culture is the issue of religious belief and its symbolic expression. We must value religious identity and be aware of current efforts to make progress in terms of interfaith dialogue, which is actually an intercultural dialogue. 

(iv) In order to not make such mistakes, the best thing we can do is get to know other cultures, while also getting to know our own. How can we dialogue with other cultures, if we don’t really know what our own culture is?

(v) The three eternal and universal values of Truth, Beauty and Goodness are closely linked with culture. It is culture that brings us closer to truth through philosophy and religion; it brings beauty in our lives through the Arts and makes us aesthetic beings; and it is culture that makes us ethical beings by bringing us closer to other human beings and teaching us the values of love, tolerance and peace. 

Q.1. What does culture provide for a decent life? Ans.  Culture provides us with ideas, ideals and values to lead a decent life. Q.2. Which individual would be called uncultured in society? Ans.  One who does not have self restraint in thought in feelings and in action, may be called an uncultured individual. WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNT  

Culture has been derived from Latin term ‘Cult’ or ‘Cultus’ meaning tilling or refining. ‘Sanskriti’ is derived from Sanskrit root ‘Kri’ meaning to do. Culture may be defined as the way an individual and especially a group live, think, feel and organize themselves, celebrate and share life. Culture has different characteristics. It can be acquired, lost or shared. It is cumulative. It is dynamic, diverse and gives us a range of permissible behavior-pattern. It can change. Culture includes both material and non-material components. In deeper sense it is culture that produces the kind of literature, music, dance, sculpture, architecture and various other art forms as well as the many organizations and structures that make the functioning of the society smooth and well-ordered.  Culture provides us with ideas, ideals and values to lead a decent life. Self restraint in conduct, consideration for the feelings of others, for the rights of others, are the highest marks of culture. A cultural heritage means all the aspects or values of culture transmitted to human beings by their ancestors to the next generation. Architectural creations, monuments, material artifacts, the intellectual achievements, philosophy, pleasure of knowledge, scientific inventions and discoveries are parts of heritage.

TERMINAL QUESTIONS  

1. How will you define the concept of culture?

2. How is culture and civilization synonymous?

3. What is cultural heritage?

4. What are the general characteristics of culture?

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Important Topics on Indian Heritage and Culture for Civil Services

‘Indian Heritage and Culture’ is an important part of UPSC Syllabus and it spans across the entire length and breadth of Indian History. Candidates need to study aesthetics, customs, social and economic aspects of art. This article gives the list of 14 most important topics that need to be covered under Indian Heritage and Culture.

Aspirants would find this article very helpful while preparing for the IAS Exam .

Indian Heritage and Culture –  14 Important Topics

Below are some important topics within ‘Indian Heritage and Culture’ that must be covered by Civil Services aspirants.

• The Harappan Civilization
• Mauryan Period
• Post- Mauryan Phase: The period of Shungas, Kanvas and Satavahanas
• Kushana Empire
• Gupta Empire
• Temple Architecture Styles
• Literature and Philosophy
• Medieval Period
• 15-16th Century Regional Kingdoms
• Mughal Empire
• The decline of Mughals and Rise of Provincial Kingdoms
• Modern Period
• Dance, Music, Paintings, Literature, Food, Fairs and Festivals

Different Types of Art

It is important to note that just like how there are important markers in Indian History, there are important markers in ‘Indian Heritage and Culture’ as well. For example,

• Harappan art is often called ‘ Utilitarian Art ’. This was because, the art of this period largely had functional utility. Decorations were bare and not on an extravagant level.
• The art that flourished during the Mauryan Period , was largely ‘ Court Art ’. It is called so because the art of this phase enjoyed royal patronage. For example, Emperor Ashoka popularized art in this period.
• The art that flourished during the Post-Mauryan Period was largely ‘ Popular Art ’. This is so because, even common people started participating in several activities involving art. We find a large number of donors, who donated their personal wealth to certain Buddhist and Jain monasteries.
• Then we find that during the Gupta Period , art becomes largely ‘ Religious Art ’. After the Gupta Period, we find that new forms of art developed during the Sultanate Period. During this period we find that several mosques, tombs and Mausoleums were constructed. After the Sultanate period, we find a period of interaction and mutual enrichment. The local art of India gets enriched due to its interaction with foreign art.
• Later, with the coming of the Mughals, we find the Golden period of Indian architecture. Then, we find Colonial art and architecture, which was yet another phase of interaction and enrichment. Indian artists learnt new things from foreign influences. Finally, the art of post-independent India largely speaks of a self-sufficient country.

The nature and scope of this subject is very vast. Thus candidates find it difficult to prepare this subject. At BYJU’s we have addressed this key concern with comprehensive coverage of the entire syllabus under ‘Indian Heritage and Culture’, that proceeds in a clear, chronological manner, appreciating developments in art, architecture, culture, etc. in each phase.

Civil Service Exam aspirants can refer to the list of UPSC Books given in the link, to augment their preparation.

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WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGE

Following are the topics on which our followers have written (and writing essays) every Sunday to hone their essay writing skills. The topics are chosen based on UPSC previous year topics. Writing one essay on each Sunday will help you get better marks in this paper.

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• [VIDEO] How to Write Philosophical Essays

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2024

• 15 September 2024 : “The moral arc of the universe bends at the elbow of justice.”
• 8 September 2024 : “The unexamined life is not worth living.”
• 1 September 2024 : The worst form of injustice is pretended justice
• 25 August, 2024 : Science is the poetry of reality.
• 18 August, 2024 : A Budget Tells Us What We Cannot Afford, But It Doesn’t Keep Us from buying it
• 11 August, 2024 : The world is not magic and that is the most magical thing about it. 
• 4 August, 2024 : Art is I; Science is We. 
• 28 July, 2024 : History, in general, only informs us what bad government is
• 21 July, 2024 : Sarcasam : the last refuge of the chaste-souled individuals when their privacy is coarsely invaded.
• 14 July, 2024 : Wound is the place where light enters you
• 7 July, 2024 : What is Religion to One is Superstition To Another
• June 30, 2024 : Gender Is Spectrum
• June 23, 2024 : Those who were seen dancing were thought to be insane by those who could not hear the music.
• June 16, 2024 : Saint Has A Past. Sinner Has A Future
• June 9, 2024 : The worst disease in the world today is corruption and the cure for it is transparency.
• June 2, 2024 : Escape Competition Through Authenticity.
• May 26, 2024 : Creativity Is Allowing Yourself to Make Mistakes. Art Is Knowing Which Ones to Keep.
• May 19 2024 : In No Man’s Land, the only way to survive is to adapt.
• May 12, 2024 : Economics is concerned with what emerges, not what anyone intended.
• May 5, 2024 : A right is not what someone gives you; it’s what no one can take from you.
• April 28, 2024 : We come nearest to the great when we are great in humility.
• April 21, 2024 : Well done is better than well said.
• April 14, 2024 : Consistency is the last refuge of the unimaginative. 
• April 07, 2024 : Came from plant, use it; made in plant, don’t.
• March 30, 2024 : A Business That Makes Nothing More Than Money Is Poor Business
• March 24, 2024 : If Voting Really Made Difference, They Would Not Let Us Do It
• March 17, 2024 : Cinema Is Not A Slice Of Life, But A Piece Of Cake. 
• March 10, 2024 : Education Can give skill, but a liberal education can give dignity
• March 3, 2024 : Sometimes when you lose your way you find yourself
• February 25, 2024 : Who Looks Inside Awakes, Who Looks Outside Dream
• February 18, 2024 : Never Let School Interfere With Your Education
• February 11, 2024 : Whoever Controls the Media Controls the Mind
• February 04, 2024 : A certain darkness is needed to see the stars
• January 28, 2024 : Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it
• January 21, 2024 : Subtle Is powerful
• January 14, 2024 : The power of community to create health is far greater than any physician, clinic or hospital. 
• January  07, 2024 : Give them Quality. That’s The Best Kind of Advertising

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2023

• December 31, 2023 : The only antidote to mental suffering is physical pain
• December 24, 2023 : All Great Changes Are Preceded By Chaos
• December 17, 2023 : We are drowning in information, but starved for Knowledge
• December 10, 2023 : Violence Is the last resort of the incompetent
• December 03, 2023 : Be a Voice, Not an Echo
• November 26, 2023 : A Society that has more justice is the society that needs less charity
• November 19, 2023 : Sell Your Cleverness and Buy Bewilderment
• November 12, 2023 : love takes off the masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within
• November 5, 2023 : Clothes Make The Man
• October 29, 2023 : Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.
• October 22, 2023 : Mathematics is the music of reason
• October 15, 2023 : Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines
• October 08, 2023 : Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane.
• October 01, 2023 : Not All Who Wander Are Lost
• September 24, 2023 : Visionary Decision-Making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic
• September 17, 2023 : Thinking Is Like A game. It does not begin unless there is an opposition team.
• September 10, 2023 : Unless we have well-educated people, we are vulnerable on National Security
• September 03, 2023 : Harsh Laws are, at times, better than No laws
• August 27, 2023 : Nations Do Not Die From Invasion. They Die From Internal Rottenness
• August 20, 2023 : In Individuals, insanity is rare; In groups, parties and nations, it is the rule.
• August 13, 2023 : Economics Is Too Important To Leave To The Economists.
• August 06, 2023 : A self without a book-shelf is naked.
• July 30, 2023 : Wrong Choices Lead To Right Places
• July 23, 2023 : Credit where credit is due.
• July 16, 2023 : A right is not what someone gives you; it’s what no one can take away from you.
• July 9, 2023 : The measure of intelligence is the ability to change
• July 2, 2023 : Do what you can, with what you have, where you are. 
• June 25, 2023 : In the long run , the sword will always be conquered by the spirit
• June 18, 2023 : The company you keep determines your Success
• June 11, 2023 : A disciplined mind brings happiness.
• June 4, 2023 : Our moral responsibility is not to stop the future but to shape it
• May 28, 2023 : Action breeds confidence and courage
• May 21, 2023 : A library is a hospital for the mind
• May 14, 2023 : Self-Education is Life-Long Curiosity
• May 7, 2023 : Silence is Spurious Golden
• April 30, 2023 : The price of greatness is responsibility
• April 23, 2023 : Progress is impossible without change
• April 16, 2023 : The Impact of Artificial Intelligence.
• April 9, 2023 : People would rather believe than know.
• April  2, 2023 : Prioritizing education technology for global growth
• March 26, 2023 : Technology is a weapon against poverty
• March 19, 2023 : Every choice you make makes you
• March 12, 2023 : Patience is a virture ; virtue is a grace
• March 5, 2023 : Before any fight, it is the fight of mind
• February 26, 2023 :  The Measure of a man is what he does with Power.
• February 19, 2023 : When you kill time, you kill life.
• February 12, 2023 : Delayed success mostly stays forever.
• February 05, 2023 : The wound is the place where the Light enters you.
• January 29, 2023 : Doubt is an uncomfortable condition, but certainty is a ridiculous one.
• January 22, 2023 : I am what I am, so take me as I am
• January 15, 2023 : Real learning comes about when the competitive spirit has ceased
• January 08, 2023 : Time hurts but it also heals. It punishes but it rewards too- it is the greatest teacher ever for a human.
• January 01, 2023 : The Beginning is the End and the End is The Beginning.

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2022

• December 25, 2022 : To tolerate is purely an act of mind
• December 18, 2022 : The arc of moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice
• December 11, 2022 : Religion is a culture of faith; Science is a culture of doubt.
• December 04, 2022 : My best friend is a person who will give me a book I have not read
• November 27, 2022 : Everything comes to him who hustles while he waits
• November 20, 2022 : We are always blind as we want to be
• November 13, 2022  : By your stumbling, the world is perfected.
• November 6, 2022 : You cannot step twice in the same river
• October 30, 2022 : Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right.
• October 23, 2022 : A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities
• October 16, 2022 : The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining
• October 9, 2022 : A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for
• October 2, 2022 : History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man
• September 25, 2022 : Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world
• September 18, 2022 : Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence
• September 11, 2022 : Culture changes with economic development.
• September 4 2022 : We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are.
• August 28 2022 :  The obstacle is the path.
• August 21 2022 : What is to give light must endure burning.
• August 14 2022 : “He who has never learned to obey cannot be a good commander.” Aristotle.
• August 7 2022 : Any fool can know. The point is to understand.” Albert Einstein
• July 31, 2022 : A bad conscience is easier to cope with than a bad reputation. Friedrich Nietzsche.
• July 24, 2022 : Time is all we have and don’t
• July 17, 2022 : Life fritters away when distractions become your lifestyle
• July 10, 2022 : After every darkness comes the dawn July 10, 2022 : After every darkness comes the dawn
• July 3, 2022 : Mind – a beautiful servant? Or a dangerous master?
• June 26, 2022 : Education Breeds Peace
• June 19, 2022 : A great leader is never angry
• June 12, 2022 : That which hurts, instructs; That which instructs, creates; Creates Wonders!
• June 05, 2022 : Don’t let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do
• May 29, 2022 : The journey is a reward as well as destination
• May 22, 2022 : Imagination creates reality
• May 15, 2022 : The curious paradox is, only if we accept things as they are, things can change
• May 08, 2022:  The whole problem with the world is that fools and fanatics are so certain of themselves, while wiser people are so full of doubts
• May 01, 2022:  Loyalty To Country Always. Loyalty To Government Only When It Deserves
• April 24, 2022: Successful Investing Is Anticipating The Anticipations of Others
• April 17, 2022: Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear
• April 10, 2022 : Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn
• April 03, 2022 : Forgiveness is the final form of love
• March 27, 2022 : The world of reality has its limits; the world of imagination is boundless
• March 20, 2022 : Reason has always existed, but not always in a reasonable form.
• March 13, 2022 : Everything we hear is an opinion; not a fact
• March 5, 2022 : There are better practices to “best practices”
• February 27, 2022 : History repeats itself first as a tragedy second as a farce.
• February 20, 2022 : What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!
• February 13, 2022 : Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world
• February 6, 2022 : The real is rational and the rational is real.
• January 30, 2022 : Philosophy of Wantlessness Is Utopian, while the philosophy of materialism is chimera.
• January 23, 2022 : Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.
• January 16, 2022 : The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced.
• January 09, 2022 : Knowing oneself is the beginning of all wisdom
• January 02, 2022 : Biased Media Is A Real Threat To Indian Democracy

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2021

• December 26, 2021 : What Gets Measured Gets Managed
• December 19, 2021 : The enemy of stability is complacency
• December 12, 2021 : A clear conscience fears no accusation
• December 05, 2021 : Power of vested interests is vastly exaggerated compared with the gradual encroachment of ideas
• November 28, 2021 : The whole is more than a sum of its parts
• November 21, 2021 : Scientific and technological progress cannot be equated with the progress of humanity
• November 14, 2021 : The price of our vitality is the sum of all our fears
• November 7, 2021 : Lawlessness is the result of failure to cultivate a sense of self-evaluation
• October 30, 2021 : What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make
• October 24, 2021 : Science for the economic freedom of humanity
• October 17, 2021 : An interdependent world cannot be an inequitable world
• October 03, 2021 : Strength comes from an indomitable Will
• SEPTEMBER 26, 2021 : Ethnocracy and concentration of power can derail even an affluent nation
• SEPTEMBER 19, 2021 : Conservation is a state of harmony between men and land.
• SEPTEMBER 12, 2021 : Culture of entitlement comes with unreasonable expectations and insecurities 
• SEPTEMBER 5, 2021 : Literacy is a vital skill that enhances dignity, improves health outcomes, empowers people to access their rights and bolsters opportunities
• AUGUST 29, 2021 : A parliamentary system of government rests on a functioning opposition as ‘no democracy can do without it’.
• AUGUST 22, 2021 : Development must lead to dismantle all kinds of human unfreedom
• AUGUST 15, 2021 : Sport is a reflection of larger social phenomena
• AUGUST 8, 2021 : Every social stratum has its own Common Sense and its own good sense
• AUGUST 1, 2021 : Capitalism without competition is not Capitalism. It is Exploitation.
• JULY 25, 2021 : We don’t have to sacrifice a Strong Economy for a Healthy Environment
• JULY 18,2021 : We Need not a social conscience, but a social consciousness.
• JULY 11, 2021 : The cure for evils of democracy is more democracy.
• JULY 04, 2021 : No Constitution by itself achieves perfect justice
• JUNE 27, 2021 : Our world has achieved brilliance without conscience.
• JUNE 20, 2021 : Our common humanity demands that we make the impossible possible.
• JUNE 13, 2021 : Without courage we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can’t be kind, true, merciful, generous, or honest.
• JUNE 06, 2021 : The political problem of mankind is to combine three things: economic efficiency, social justice and individual liberty.
• MAY 30, 2021 : Economics without ethics is a caricature & ethics without economics is a fairy tale.
• MAY 23 , 2021 : Indecisiveness is the rival of Progression
• MAY 16 , 2021 : Time changes everything except something within us which is always surprised by change.
• May 09, 2021 : The possession of arbitrary power has always, the world over, tended irresistibly to destroy humane sensibility, magnanimity, and truth
• May 02, 2021 : The truth of character is expressed through choice of act ions
• April 25, 2021 : It is not our differences that divide us; It is our inability to recognise, accept, and celebrate those differences.
• April 18, 2021 : Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.
• April 11, 2021 : Solutions emerge if situations are not forced
• April 04, 2021 : Morality is subservient to materialistic values in present times
• March 28, 2021 : Prejudice is a burden that confuses the past, threatens the future and renders the present inaccessible
• March 21, 2021 : Our major social problems are not the cause of our decadence but are a reflection of it
• March 14, 2021 : The Future of Multilateralism : Towards a responsible Globalization
• March 07, 2021 : Subtlety may deceive you; Integrity never will
• February 28, 2021 :Technology as the silent factor in international relations
• February 21, 2021 :Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality
• February 14, 2021:There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless
• February 07, 2021: Culture is what we are civilization is what we have
• January 31, 2021: Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication
• January 24, 2021: Ships do not sink because of water around them , ships sink because of water that gets into them
• January 17, 2021: Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self
• January 10, 2021: Life is long journey between human being and being humane
• January 03, 2021: The Covid pandemic has revealed the urgent need for effective governance everywhere”
• December 27, 2020: Challenges of 21st Century – insurmountable?
• December 20, 2020: Too much Democracy is Detrimental to Development
• December 13, 2020: Happiness is not an ideal of reason, but of imagination.

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2020

• December 06, 2020 : As you Start to walk on the way, the Way appears
• November 29, 2020: Need of the Hour is to Maximise Possibilities of Agriculture in India
• November 22, 2020: The survival of democracy depends on its ability to lower social uncertainty
• November 15, 2020: There is no greatness where there is no simplicity
• November 08, 2020: Inequality can be Reduced by the Power of the Market rather than the Government
• November 01, 2020: Civil liberties are fundamental to the functioning of modern democracies
• October 25, 2020: Artificial Intelligence is Not All Evil – It can Promote Social Good Too
• October 18, 2020: Wherever law ends, tyranny begins
• October 11, 2020:Hyper-globalism is threat to human prosperity
• September 27, 2020: Our World is in a Surplus of Multilateral Challenges and a Deficit of Solutions
• September 20, 2020: In India Agriculture and the Farmer are both the Victims of Narrow Political Vision
• September 13, 2020: India Needs Aggressive and Pragmatic Neighbourhood Policy
• September 6, 2020: “The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his  attitude .
• August 30, 2020: The worst form of inequality is to try to make unequal things equal
• August 23, 2020: Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.
• August 16, 2020: Life without liberty is like a body without spirit.
• August 09, 2020: Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value
• August 02, 2020: New Education Policy 2020: A Progressive Policy with Diverse Challenges
• July 26, 2020: In a democracy, the individual enjoys not only the ultimate power but carries the ultimate responsibility
• July 19, 2020: Education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance
• July 12, 2020: The human spirit must prevail over technology
• July 05, 2020: When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace.
• June 28, 2020: Today India Needs ‘Harmony in Diversity’, Not Unity in Diversity.
• June 21, 2020: A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.
• June 14, 2020: Post Independence, the Issue of Land is at the Core of India’s Non-Achievement of Its Development Aspirations
• June 7, 2020: Never Let a Good Crisis Go to Waste
• May 31, 2020: Despite Challenges, To be a Healthy and Successful Nation, India must Ensure Universal Health Coverage 
• May 24, 2020: Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.
• May 17, 2020:The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little
• May 10, 2020: Urban Exclusion of Migrant Workers in India is a Reality and Needs Urgent Robust Policy Measures
• May 03, 2020: Uncertainty should ignite creativity, not depravity
• April 26, 2020: The fool doth think he is wise but the wise man knows himself to be a fool
• April 19, 2020: Social Harmony, not Social Distancing, is the final solution to all our problems
• April 12, 2020: It is our choices, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities
• April 05, 2020: Education must also train one for quick, resolute and effective thinking
• March 29, 2020: “Problems cannot be solved at the same level of awareness that created them”
• March 22, 2020: In order to understand the world one has to turn away from it on occasion
• March 15, 2020: Pandemics such as COVID-19, though Catastrophic, are in the end Meant to Reset Humanity and its Priorities
• March 08, 2020: Those who have wisdom have all: Fools with all have nothing
• March 01, 2020: Indifferentism is the worst kind of disease that can affect people.
• [VIDEO] Perspectives on Essay Topic of Feb 23
• February 23, 2020: To ease another’s heartache is to forget one’s own.
• February 16, 2020 : When civil services does its job, people will not need social service
• February 09, 2020 : The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.
• February 02, 2020: Ability will get you success, Character will keep you successful.
• January 26, 2020: Media’s duty is to inform public, not manufacture opinion.
• January 19, 2020: Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes
• January 12, 2020 : Women who seek to be equal with men lack ambition
• J anuary 5, 2020 : All war is a symptom of man’s failure as a thinking animal
• December 29, 2019 : There cannot be daily democracy without daily citizenship
• December 22, 2019: War is the ultimate Price we pay for lasting Peace
• December 15, 2019 : Inclusivity and Plurality are the hallmarks of a peaceful society
• December 08, 2019: Justice Loses Character if it becomes Revenge
• December 01. 2019: Economic Growth and Development are Shaped by the Societies in which they Operate
• November 24, 2019: Social Media is the Fourth Pillar of Democracy
• November 17, 2019: Media is No More a Fourth Pillar of Democracy
• November 10, 2019: Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling
• November 03, 2019:Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy
• October 27, 2019: Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness
• October 20, 2019: South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities
• October 13, 2019: Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success
• October 06, 2019: Best for an individual is not necessarily best for the society
• September 29, 2019: Values are not what humanity is, but what humanity ought to be
• September 22, 2019: Wisdom finds truth

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2019

• September 15, 2019: Kashmir Problem – Historical Injustice or Misguided Geopolitics?
• September 08, 2019: India’s Space Ambitions – Are they Welfarist?
• September 01, 2019: India – $5 Trillion Economy: Dream or Reality?
• August 25, 2019 Knowledge will give you power, but character respect.
• August 18, 2019 The mind is everything. What you think you become.
• August 11, 2019: Virtue is Knowledge
• August 04, 2019: Inclusive governance begets Inclusive growth
• July 28, 2019: India’s headache: Unemployment or Underemployment?
• July 21, 2019: The road to science and spirituality are opposite, but we should tread both
• July 14, 2019: India is a leading power, rather than just a balancing power
• July 07, 2019: Should the world embrace democratic socialism or progressive capitalism?
• June 30, 2019: Impact of Digital Revolution on Human Wellbeing
• June 23, 20 19: Contentment is natural wealth, luxury is artificial poverty
• June 16, 2019: The definition of happiness is the full use of your powers, along the lines of excellence.
• June 09, 2019: Not Corruption, Communalism is the Greatest Threat India is facing Today
• May 19, 2019: First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.
• May 12, 2019: Never interrupt your enemy when he is making a mistake
• May 05, 2019: Happiness equals reality minus expectations
• April 28, 2019: Political correctness is tyranny with manners
• April 21, 2019: The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.
• April 07, 2019: Dogma is the sacrifice of wisdom to consistency
• March 31, 2019: The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good.
• March 24, 2019: Terrorism has No Religion
• March 17, 2019: Money and Religion – Great Unifiers of Humankind?
• March 10, 2019: Tradition becomes our security, and when the mind is secure it is in decay
• March 03, 2019: Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower
• February 24,2019: Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens
• February 17, 2019: Problems worthy of attack prove their worth by fighting back
• February 10, 2019: Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.
• February 03, 2019: You can avoid reality, but you cannot avoid the consequences of avoiding reality
• January 27, 2019: Glory is fleeting, but obscurity is forever
• January 20, 2019: All that we are is the result of what we have thought.
• January 12, 2019: All differences in this world are of degree, and not of kind, because oneness is the secret of everything.
• January 06, 2019: National security is Irreversibly linked to good economic growth

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2018

• December 28, 2018: To plan for smart development, governments and business must recognize nature’s role in supporting economic activity
• December 23, 2018: Government Surveillance – Good or Bad?
• December 16, 2018: Trade Wars – Economic or Geopolitical?
• December 02, 2018: Immigration is Not a Threat, but Fundamentally it’s an Economic Issue
• November 25, 2018: A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both
• November 18, 2018: “The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values
• November 11, 2018: A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge
• November 04, 2018: Management of Indian border disputes – a complex task
• October 28, 2018: Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India
• October 21, 2018: Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere
• October 14, 2018: Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it
• October 07, 2018: Customary morality cannot be a guide to modern life
• September 30, 2018: Commercialization of Space : Importance and the need for regulation
• September 23, 2018: E-commerce as a new form of trade and its challenges to India.
• September 16, 2018: Ability is nothing without opportunity
• September 09, 2018: Death Penalty eliminates Criminals, not Crime.
• September 02, 2018: Dissent is the foundation of democracy.
• August 26, 2018: Mars Mission and Mob lynchings are two obverse faces of India
• August 19, 2018: Strengthening Land Rights Strengthens Development
• August 12, 2018: Age of Big Data: Data is the New Oil, History is its oldest bank
• August 05, 2018: Strong Institutions and fair procedures, not personalities constitute the fundamentals of good governance
• July 29, 2018: Social reform is a myth if places of worship are open only to all castes and not to all genders.
• July 22, 2018: Section 377, not the carnal acts banned under it is ‘against the order of nature ‘
• July 15, 2018: Schooling Is Not Education
• July 08, 2018: Sometimes it takes a natural disaster to reveal a social disaster.
• July 01, 2018: Normal human activity is worse for nature than the greatest nuclear accident in history
• June 24, 2018: Gender Sensitive Indian Society is Prerequisite for Women and Child Empowerment
• June 17, 2018: Where Should India Invest More – Human Capital or Human Development?
• June 10, 2018: Has Democracy Taken Backseat Due to the Rise of Populists and Demagogues?
• June 03, 2018: We won’t have a society ,if we destroy the environment
• May 27, 2018: Can Development and Environment Protection Go Together?
• May 20, 2018: Governor is the Choke Point of Federal Circuit of India
• May 13, 2018: Anonymity is the Best and the Worst Feature of Urbanism
• May 06, 2018: A man is but the product of his thoughts; what he thinks, he becomes
• April 29, 2018: Guaranteeing Right to Vote may Establish a Democracy, But Ensuring it’s Right Use Only Will Bring a True Democracy
• April 22, 2018: Stereotyping is an Ideological Force Which Hinders and Endangers Consolidation of India
• April 15, 2018: Can Education and legislation Address Violence Against Women and Children in India?
• April 8, 2018: Banking Crisis in India – Failure of Governance and Regulation?
• April 1, 2018: Privacy is the fountainhead of all other rights
• March 25, 2018: Impact of Technology on Human Relations and Human Productivity
• March 18, 2018: India’s Focus should be on Ease of Living, not on Easy of Doing Business
• March 11, 2018: A friend to everybody is a friend to nobody
• March 04, 2018: Capitalism can not Bring Inclusive Growth
• February 25, 2018: The unprecedented advance of technologies facilitate individual empowerment but at the cost of Institutions and Democratic societies
• February 18, 2018: Threats being Faced by Liberal Democratic Systems are both Dangerous and Permanent
• February 11, 2018: For India, Stigmatised Capitalism is Better than Crony Socialism
• February 04, 2018: Art, freedom and creativity will change society faster than politics.
• January 28, 2018: Politics of Identity is the Politics of the Weak
• January 21, 2018: Poverty is the parent of revolution and crime
• January 14, 2018: Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding
• January 07, 2018: The Root Cause of Agrarian Distress in India – Failure of Policies or Failure of Governance?

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2017

• December 31, 2017: Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India
• December 24, 2017: Fulfilment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth
• December 17, 2017: Joy is the simplest form of gratitude.
• December 10, 2017: Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India
• December 03, 2017: Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms
• November 19, 2017: Has the Non- Alignment Movement(NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world
• November 12, 2017: Social media is inherently a selfish medium.
• November 04, 2017: We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws
• October 29, 2017: Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others.
• October 22, 2017: Harith Diwali, Swasth Diwali : What measures are needed to deal with Festivity and Air Pollution?
• October 15, 2017: Biggest Threat to Humanity – Moral Crisis or Climate Change?
• October 08, 2017: The monsoon is a defining aspect of India’s nationhood
• October 01, 2017: India’s Infrastructure Story – Why is India not able to Build like China?
• September 24, 2017: Impact of Digital Technologies on Globalisation
• September 17, 2017: Urbanisation and Solid Waste Management in India – Challenges and Opportunities
• September 10,2017: Gender Equality and Peace: Are They Connected?
• September 03, 2017: Recent Natural Disasters – What do they Reveal about Humanity?
• August 27, 2017: Godmen – A Threat to Indian Society and Culture
• August 20, 2017: Corruption in India: Neither Systemic Reforms nor Surgical Strikes would End it
• August 13,2017: Interrelationship between Gender Equality and Sustainable Development
• August 06, 2017: Utility and relevance of Parliament in our polity
• July 30, 2017: Caste System – Source of India’s Eternal Inequality?
• July 23, 2017: Indian Democracy, Media and Public Opinion – Does Public Opinion Matter in Policymaking?
• July 16, 2017: Poverty and Environment – Their Interrelationship is the Key to Sustainable World
• July 09, 2017: Soft Power is India’s Strength, not its Weakness
• July 02, 2017: Technology and Jobs – Is Technology a Curse?
• June 25, 2017: Democracy’s Relevance in the Face of New Global Threats
• June 18, 2017: Federalism in India – Competitive or Cooperative?
• June 11, 2017: Peace, Environment and Development: Are these Interrelated?
• June 04, 2017: Role of Technology in Development – Is Technology Helping or Hindering Development?
• May 28, 2017: Poverty is a State of Mind
• May 21, 2017: Does India Need Superpower Status?
• May 14, 2017: India’s Achilles Heel – Lack of Ambition or Lack of Leadership in Achieving Greatness?
• May 07, 2017: Don’t limit a child to your own learning, for he was born in another time.
• April 29, 2017: The greatest happiness of the greatest number is the foundation of morals and legislation
• April 23, 2017: To conquer fear is the beginning of wisdom
• April 16, 2017: One-Party-Dominant System – Is it Good for India?
• April 09, 2017: Should Youth in India Consider Politics as Career?
• April 02, 2017: Can World Save Succeeding Generations from the Scourge of War?
• March 26, 2017: Low, stagnating female labour-force participation in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms?
• March 19, 2017: When a man is denied the right to live the life he believes in, he has no choice but to become an outlaw
• March 12, 2017: The marks humans leave are too often scars
• March 05, 2017: Environmental Challenges and Geopolitics: How to save our Environment?
• February 27, 2017: Radical Solutions are Needed to Address Today’s Radical Problems
• February 19, 2017: India’s Importance in the Post-truth World
• February 12, 2017: The Role of Politics in Development
• February 05, 2017: Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored
• January 29, 2017: Building Walls and Banning Refugees – Does this Help Humanity?
• January 22, 2017: Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality
• January 15, 2017: Cyberspace and internet: Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run
• January 08, 2017: Water disputes between states in federal India
• January 01, 2017: Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2016

• (December 25, 2016) – Cooperative federalism: Myth or reality
• (December 18, 2016) – Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare
• (December 11, 2016) – Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms
• (December 04, 2016) – If development is not engendered, it is endangered
• (November 27, 2016) – Social media is better at breaking things than at making things
• (November 20, 2016) – Deglobalization is good for the world
• (November 12, 2016) – Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others
• (November 06, 2016) – It is not inequality which is the real misfortune, it is dependence
• (October 30, 2016) – Reducing Poverty while also Conserving Nature is an Impossible Task
• (October 23, 2016) – Poverty can be eliminated by putting science at the heart of development
• (October 16, 2016) – People shouldn’t be afraid of their government. Governments should be afraid of their people
• (October 09, 2016) – Better Access is Key to Inclusive Cities
• (October 02, 2016) – The weaker sections of Indian society – Are their Rights and Access to Justice Getting Better?
• (September 25, 2016) – Imagination is more important than intelligence
• (September 18, 2016) – Science is organized knowledge. Wisdom is organized life
• (September 11, 2016) – Not what we have But what we enjoy, constitutes our abundance
• (September 04, 2016) – It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it
• (August 28, 2016) – If one can Address Moral Crisis, many of World’s Problems can be Solved
• (August 21, 2016) – Overdependence on Technology will Advance Human Development
• (August 14, 2016) – Geography may remain the same ; history need not
• (August 07, 2016) – Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom
• (July 31, 2016) – To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all
• (July 24, 2016) – True knowledge exists in knowing that you know nothing
• (July 17, 2016) – We Can Not Fight Terrorism – We have to Live With it
• (July 10, 2016) – A house divided against itself cannot stand
• (July 02, 2016) – When the going gets tough, the tough get going
• (June 26, 2016) – India a Reluctant Participant in the New Global Order?
• (June 19, 2016) – Inclusiveness in India – Still a Dream?
• (June 12, 2016) – No one can make you feel inferior without your consent
• (June 05, 2016) – Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted
• (May 29, 2016) – It is hard to free fools from the chains they revere
• (May 22, 2016) – Honest disagreement is often a good sign of progress
• (May 15, 2016) – Fire is a good servant but a bad master
• (May 08, 2016) – The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence
• (May 01, 2016) – Labour Reforms in India and its Role in Economic Development
• (April 24, 2016) – It takes a whole village to raise a child
• (April 17, 2016) – Trust take years to Build, Seconds to Break
• (April 10, 2016) – Cleanliness is next to Godliness
• (April 03, 2016) – Honesty is the Best Policy
• (March 27, 2016) – Before criticizing a man, walk a mile in his shoes
• (March 20, 2016) – Caste System – India’s Enduring Curse
• (March 13, 2016) – Fortune favors the bold
• (March 06, 2016) – Quick but steady wins the race
• (February 28, 2016) – Dreams which should not let India sleep
• (February 21, 2016) – Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole
• (February 14, 2016) – Technology cannot replace manpower
• (February 7, 2016) – Character of an institution is reflected in its leader
• (January 31, 2016) – Can Capitalism bring Inclusive Growth?
• (January 24, 2016) – Crisis Faced in India – Moral or Economic?
• (January 17, 2016) – Too many cooks spoil the broth
• (January 10, 2016) – The Best Things in Life are Free
• (January 3, 2016) – Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

WEEKLY ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2015

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• 13 December 2015
• 06 December 2015
• 28 November 2015
• 21 November 2015
• 15 November 2015
• 08 November 2015
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• 13 September 2015
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• 31 August 2015
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• 09 August 2015
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• 26 July 2015
• 19 July 2015
• 12 July 2015
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• 10 May 2015
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Globalization

Globalisation is the phenomenon of rising integration, interdependence, and interconnectedness of the global community (socially and economically).

Factors affecting Globalization in India

• Economic reforms : In 1991, India implemented a series of economic reforms that aimed to liberalize the economy, open up to foreign investment, and encourage private sector participation which played a crucial role in integrating India into the global economy and attracting foreign companies to invest and operate in the country.
• Information technology boom : India's skilled workforce, particularly in the field of software development and IT services, has made it a global hub for outsourcing and offshoring.
• Trade liberalization : Reductions in tariffs, removal of trade barriers, and the facilitation of cross-border trade have increased India's participation in international trade and boosted globalization.
• Foreign direct investment (FDI): The opening up of key sectors to foreign investment and the relaxation of FDI regulations have attracted multinational corporations (MNCs) to establish a presence in India.
• Infrastructure development : Investments in infrastructure, including transportation, logistics, and communication networks, have improved connectivity within India and with the rest of the world.
• Demographic advantage: The availability of a vast labour pool has attracted outsourcing and offshoring activities, making India a preferred destination for certain industries seeking cost-effective solutions.
• Technological advancements : Advancements in technology, especially in communication and information technology, have played a significant role in India's globalization. E.g., Access to affordable mobile phones, widespread internet penetration, and the growth of digital platforms have enabled greater connectivity, communication, and access to global markets for businesses and individuals.
• Cultural exchange: Indian diaspora communities across the world have also fostered connections between India and other countries, facilitating trade, investment, and knowledge exchange.

Forms of Globalization and its Social Impact:

• Cultural Globalization: This refers to the transmission and diffusion of ideas, meanings, and values around the world in such a way as to extend and intensify social relations.
• Economic Globalization : This involves the increasing integration and interdependence of national economies around the world.
• Political Globalization: This refers to the growing influence and cohesion of transnational governmental actors and the increasing role of international organizations such as the United Nations.
• McDonaldization: A term used by sociologists to describe a societal shift toward efficiency, predictability, calculability, and control in societies.
• Global Culture: This refers to the notion of a single global culture emerging, mainly Western, facilitated by the rise of mass media and the internet.
• Homogenization: The process by which cultures are becoming more alike through globalization.
• Hybridization: This concept refers to the blending of elements from different cultures as a result of globalization.
• Cultural Imperialism : This term refers to the domination of other cultures by a powerful nation, particularly in terms of cultural values and norms.
• De-territorialization: This is the severance of social, political, or cultural practices from their native places and populations.

Glocalization:

• Glocalization is a term that combines "globalization" and "localization." It refers to the concept of developing or tailoring products, services, and strategies in accordance with both global and local requirements.
• The goal of glocalization is to create a global product or service that has been adapted to the local culture, taste, laws, and market demands where it is being sold.
• Glocalization is particularly relevant in the world of business and marketing, where a balance must be struck between reaching a global audience and catering to local tastes, customs, and regulations.

Key features:

• Understanding Local Culture : This involves gaining knowledge about local customs, values, and tastes. This is a crucial aspect of glocalization, as businesses aim to make their products or services relevant and appealing to local markets while maintaining their global brand identity.
• Adapting Products or Services : Adapting a product or service to cater to local preferences can involve changes in design, packaging, colors, features, and even the product name to resonate with the local market.
• Compliance with Local Regulations : Businesses often need to modify their products, services, or operations to comply with local laws and regulations. This can include safety standards, environmental regulations, import/export rules, and other legal requirements.
• Local Marketing Strategies : Marketing strategies can be modified to suit local preferences. This can involve using local languages, appealing to local cultural values, and using local media and advertising channels.

Some Examples of Glocalization:

  Impacts of Globalization on Indian Culture: 

• Cultural Exchange: Globalization has facilitated increased cultural exchange between India and other countries, leading to the assimilation of foreign ideas, practices, and values into Indian culture.
• Influence of Western Culture: The influx of Western media, technology, and consumerism has significantly impacted Indian culture, particularly among the younger generation, leading to changes in lifestyle, fashion, and social norms.
• Culinary Fusion: Globalization has introduced international cuisine to India, leading to a fusion of flavors and culinary practices. Indian cuisine has also gained popularity worldwide, contributing to cultural diversity.
• Language and Communication: Globalization has led to the adoption and widespread use of English as a global language of communication. This has affected regional languages and dialects, altering linguistic patterns and communication dynamics in India.
• Entertainment Industry: The global reach of Indian cinema (Bollywood) and television shows has popularized Indian culture and traditions abroad. However, it has also influenced Indian entertainment, leading to a blend of local and international styles.
• Consumerism and Materialism: The rise of global brands and consumer culture has influenced Indian society, leading to an increased emphasis on material possessions and changing values related to wealth and status.
• Cultural Preservation and Revival: Globalization has also sparked a renewed interest in Indian traditions and cultural practices, leading to efforts to preserve and revive indigenous art forms, crafts, music, and dance.
• Education and Employment: Globalization has provided new opportunities for Indian professionals in various sectors, leading to cultural exchange and exposure to different work cultures and practices.
• Religious and Spiritual Influence: Globalization has brought diverse religious and spiritual beliefs to India, leading to an interchange of ideas and practices. It has also led to the growth of global religious movements within the country.
• Challenges to Cultural Authenticity: Globalization has posed challenges to preserving the authenticity of Indian culture, as commercialization and commodification of traditions can dilute their true essence.

Impacts of Globalization on Women 

  Positive Impacts

• Greater Employment Opportunities: Globalization has led to the growth of industries and the service sector, creating new job opportunities. Women have been able to find employment in sectors like technology, hospitality, and healthcare.
• Improved Access to Education: Globalization has played a role in spreading awareness about the importance of education for girls. There's an increased emphasis on women's education, resulting in more educated women in the workforce.
• Increased Social Empowerment: With access to global media, the internet, and various forms of communication, many women are more aware of their rights and have been empowered to fight for them. Globalisation has brought feminist movement to India and hence gave voice to their ideas and concerns. e.g. #MeToo movement.
• Economic Independence: Many women now have more financial freedom and independence, which can empower them in their personal and professional lives.
• Exposure to New Ideas and Lifestyles: Globalization brings in a flow of ideas and cultures from around the world, leading to more progressive attitudes towards women's rights and roles in society.
• Greater Representation : There has been a significant increase in the representation of women in various fields such as politics, science, and technology.

  Negative Impacts

• Wage Disparity: Despite an increase in employment opportunities, wage disparity remains a significant issue. Women often earn less than their male counterparts for the same work.
• Exploitation in Unorganized Sector: Many women work in the informal sector with little or no job security or benefits. They may also be subject to exploitation and abuse.
• Inadequate Social Security: Many women employed in the global economy lack access to essential social security benefits like maternity leave, health insurance, and pension schemes.
• Dual Burden: Women often face the dual burden of paid work outside the home in addition to unpaid domestic work, leading to long work hours and stress.
• Increased Consumerism: The rise in consumerism due to globalization can lead to financial stress and societal pressure.
• Cultural Displacement: The influx of western culture can lead to a sense of cultural displacement and conflicts between traditional and modern values, particularly in terms of gender roles.
• Marginalization of Rural Women: While urban women may benefit from globalization, rural women are often left behind, further exacerbating rural-urban inequalities.

  Impact of Globalization on Family:

• Nuclear Family: With the movement of younger generation for education and employment, nuclear families have replaced joint families.
• New forms of family: With westernisation and modernisation, new forms of family are evolving e.g. dual career family, single parent family and live in relationship.
• Individual interests: are becoming more important than the family interests.
• Decline in caring functions: The caring and nurturing functions of family are declining due to employment of women, rising physical distance etc.
• Declining role in finding life partners: Online dating sites have reduced family’s role in finding life partners.
• Decline of traditional authority: The traditionally accepted authority of Husband or Father is declining.
• Modernisation of the industrial sector: India became a favourite offshore market for pharmaceutical manufacturing, chemical, and petroleum industries.
• Privatisation of the financial sector: Prior to globalization and privatization, India’s financial sector had been mismanaged by a combination of corrupt and inept government officials.
• Agriculture sector: The new technological capabilities of farmers have increased helping drive global exports of Indian products such as tea, coffee and sugar.

Impact of Globalization on Sections of Society:

  The Phenomenon of Anti-globalization

• Economic Inequality : Globalization has led to uneven distribution of wealth, with certain individuals and corporations benefiting significantly more than others. According to a report by Oxfam, the world's richest 1% have more than twice as much wealth as 6.9 billion people. This has led to feeling of alienation from the process of globalization.
• Rise of Protectionism: Countries imposing tariffs and trade barriers to protect their domestic industries and jobs can undermine the free flow of goods and services that characterizes globalization.
• Populist Movements: The rise of populism in various parts of the world, driven by economic dissatisfaction, often manifests in resistance to globalization. This can lead to policies aiming to regain national control over economic affairs.
• Geopolitical Tensions: Political and economic rivalries between major powers can lead to 'decoupling', where the global exchange of goods, services, and information is disrupted.
• Technology Disruptions: While technology can accelerate globalization, concerns over issues like data privacy, cybercrime, and digital divides are leading some countries to impose restrictions on the free flow of digital information.
• COVID-19 Pandemic: The pandemic has disrupted global supply chains and led to calls for increased domestic production of key goods. This could result in a more localized approach to production in the future.
• Environmental Concerns: The environmental impact of globalization is leading to calls for more sustainable, localized practices.
• Issues of Sovereignty: There's an increasing call for national sovereignty against perceived overreach by global institutions, which may prompt a shift away from multilateral agreements.
• Migration Crisis: As large numbers of people move across borders due to economic disparity, conflict, or climate change, it can fuel anti-globalization sentiments and policies.
• Rise of Nationalism: Increasing nationalism can lead to a backlash against globalization, as citizens seek to prioritize national interests over global ones.

The Resilience of Global Trade: Continuity Amidst Changing Dynamics:

• Global Trade Defies Headwinds: Despite challenges, global trade remains robust. e.g., COVID-19 pandemic, Russia-Ukraine war effects.
• Selective Changes in Global Trade: The structure of global trade is evolving selectively. Example: De-globalization or regionalization may occur in specific industries and countries over the next five to ten years.
• Regionalization as a Response: Countries and regions pursue self-sufficiency and regional trade. Example: Rising regionalization of supply chains, such as Asia's increasing share of machinery imports into China.
• Shift from Unipolar to Multipolar: The global economy moves away from a unipolar framework. Example: Sino-U.S. relations deteriorate, leading to a fragmented global economy with multiple ecosystems.
• Implications for Inflation and Growth: Changes in globalization dynamics may impact inflation and growth. Example: Increased regionalization and potential inflationary pressures could lead to structurally higher interest rates and lower growth.

Conclusion: The economic and social shifts that have occurred as a direct result of globalisation are also encompassed within the definition of globalisation. Consumers in today’s world have access to a diverse array of options for both the products and services they purchase. Globalization brought positive social changes in the society; however, it becomes a point of concern when an overwhelming impact of globalisation can be observed on the Indian culture and environment.

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Impact of globalization on Indian culture | Sociology Optional for UPSC Civil Services Examination | Triumph IAS

Table of Contents

IMPACT OF GLOBALIZATION ON INDIAN CULTURE

Relevant for ups-cse general studies paper 1 (impact of globalization of indian society).

GLOBALIZATION ON INDIAN CULTURE

Globalization is a process of increasing interdependence, interconnectedness and integration of economies and societies to such an extent that an event in one part of the globe affects people in other parts of world.

The effect of globalization is far reaching. It affects us all but affects us differently. Thus, while for some it may mean new opportunities, for others the loss of livelihood. Women silk spinners and twisters of Bihar lost their jobs once the Chinese and Korean silk yarn entered the market. Weavers and consumers prefer this yarn as it is somewhat cheaper and has a shine.

Similar displacements have come with the entry of large fishing vessels into Indian waters. These vessels take away the fish that used to be earlier collected by Indian fishing vessels. The livelihood of women fish sorters, dryers, vendors and net makers thereby get affected. In Gujarat, women gum collectors, who were picking from the ‘julifera’ (Baval trees), lost their employment due to the import of cheaper gum from Sudan. In almost all cities of India, the rag pickers lost some of their employment due to import of waste paper from developed countries.

It is obvious that globalization is of great social significance. But its impact on different sections of society is very different. There are, therefore, sharply divided views about the impact of globalization regarding its effect. Some believe that it is necessary to herald a better world.

Impact of Globalization on Indian Culture

• There are many ways that globalization affects culture. Over the ages India has had an open approach to cultural influences and has been enriched because of this. The last few decades have seen major cultural changes leading to fears that our local cultures would be overtaken. Thus there are heated debates in our society not just about political and economic issues but also about changes in clothes, styles, music, films, languages, body language. The debate is not new and 19th century reformers and early nationalists also debated on culture and tradition. The issues today are in some ways the same, in some ways different. What is perhaps different is the scale and intensity of change.
• A central contention is that all cultures will become similar, that is homogeneous. Others argue that there is an increasing tendency towards globalization of culture. Globalization refers to the mixing of the global with the local. It is not entirely spontaneous. Nor is it entirely delinked from the commercial interests of globalization. It is a strategy often adopted by foreign firms while dealing with local traditions in order to enhance their marketability. In India, we find that all the foreign television channels like Star, MTV, Channel V and Cartoon Network use Indian languages. Even McDonald sells only vegetarian and chicken products in India and not its beef products, which are popular abroad. McDonald’s goes vegetarian during the Navaratri festival . In the field of music, one can see the growth of popularity of ‘ Bhangra pop ’, ‘Indi pop’, fusion music and even remixes.
• Joint family has been adversely affected due to globalization. There has been an increase in nuclear families. This can be clearly manifested in the increasing number of old age homes that are present now. The diversity in family forms has given way to a dominance of nuclear family in the globalized India
• Due to opening up of food joints like McDonalds, KFC across the country, there has been a homogenization of food available across the country, but there has also been heterogenization in food. Old restaurants are now replaced by Mc. Donalds . Fast food and Chinese dishes have replaced juice corners and Parathas.
• Borrowing of money has become more acceptable now as compared to the past. Taking loans is very common due to increasing access to financial institutions
• In place of old cinema halls, multiplex theatres are coming up.
• Use of English has increased manifold in urban areas, this has led to a homogenization in language across the country, but the rural areas have been less affected by it.

Globalization  of Culture

• India has its unique cuisine, but the cuisines of foreign countries have become more easily available, they are modified to suit the taste buds of Indians (like Paneer Tikka Burger in McDonalds) . This has led to a wide variety of food being available, leading to heterogenization French, German and Spanish are taught to students right from school level along with indigenous languages, this is an exemplification of hybridization of culture
• Popularity of foreign movies has increased, Hollywood, Chinese, French and Korean movies are quite popular among the urban youth. Along with this, dubbing of these foreign movies in local languages is testimony of increased glocalization. Festivals: celebrations of Valentines’ day, Friendship day are examples of change in cultural values related to festival. However, along with these new days, traditional festivals are celebrated with equal enthusiasm.
• Importance of marriage is decreasing, there has been an increase in divorce, increase in live-in relationships, and single parenting is increasing. Marriage used to be considered as bonding of the souls; but today marriage is becoming professional and contractual. However, despite change in forms of marriage, it has not declined as an institution.

Revival of Culture

• Revival of Yoga in the country as well as in the international level. This can be seen in the popularity of the ‘Art of Living’ course by Ravi Shankar, or the celebration of International Yoga day across the world
• There has been a revival of ayurvedic medicines in the country as well as outside it.
• Due to increasing uncertainty by inter-linkage with the outside world, there has been religious revivalism. This can be manifested in the use of religion to attract voters, or mobilizing people on the basis of religion.
• Increasing demand for local handicraft products in global market, such as Chikenkari or bandhani.
• Due to increasing global tourism, locals are making efforts to preserve their diversity and revive their traditions.

All these changes have led to drastic changes to Indian culture, though most of these changes are confined to the urban areas, but the rural areas are fast catching up. We can see that the western culture is influencing the Indian culture, but it is not replacing it, rather there is a mixture of both cultures. It is to be noted that culture cannot be seen as an unchanging fixed entity that can either collapse or remain the same when faced with social change. What is more likely even today is that globalization will lead to the creation of not just new local traditions but global ones too.

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.

Impact of Globalization, Indian Culture, Social Significance, Globalization of Culture, Revival of Culture, Nuclear Families, Revival, Social Structures, Chikenkari or bandhani

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.

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One comment

Hey there! Your essay was rather eye-opening, but I couldn’t help but notice that you, in your admirable attempt to convey the widespread effects of globalisation in our country, may have conveyed what can be best described as unsubstantiated hearsay and anecdotal evidence as proof of your claims. I would love to see some data regarding the various points you’ve gone over in your essay. Cheers.

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Essay on Indian Culture and Tradition for Students in English

January 7, 2020 by Sandeep

Indian Culture and Tradition Essay: India is a land of rich cultural diversity. Our culture is inclusive of the customs and traditions we follow, festivals we celebrate, art practices, handicrafts, folklore, food habits, music and dance etc. Our multi religious society caters to all religions and languages alike. Our countrymen follow various social beliefs, wear different dresses, and conduct various celebrations. National festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm towards the country.

Essay on Indian Culture and Tradition in 500 Words

Below we have provided Indian Culture and Tradition Essay in English, suitable for class 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10.

India – The treasure house of rich cultural heritage and traditions

When one pronounces the word “India,” one is draped in the smell in spices, sarees, the smell of pickles and rain, the loud music and dances, the happy faces of innocent people quite untouched by the evolving westernization. India encapsulates all of those emotions and more. India thrives on love, languages, religion, and culture due to the diverse race of people living in the country. It can be hands down referred to as one of the world’s most culturally enriched countries.

Being a country that is the home to such diverse cultures and traditions, religion plays a very significant role. Various religions founded and followed in the country include Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, etc. Apart from these, there are also huge majorities of people having Islamic faith, following Christianity or Buddhism and various other religions which do not have an Indian origin. Most of the religions founded in India are based on the concept of non-violence.

According to the 2011 census, 79.8% of the population of India practice Hinduism. Islam (14.2%), Christianity (2.3%), Sikhism (1.7%), Buddhism (0.7%) and Jainism (0.4%) forms the major religions of the country. Apart from that, there are also several other religions practiced in the heart of the country.

Marital Rituals

According to the early marital rituals of India, back in the 1950’s, Indians primarily lived in large joint families where the parents, children and the next generation on offspring lived together under the same roof. However, in the more recent times due to modernization creeping into the society and western cultures being quickly inherited, joint-families are almost rare and non-existent. Nucleated families are more common as children decide on separating from their parent’s houses to afford to have more independence and privacy. The system of arranged marriages is also highly prevalent to this day in the country. The average age for marriage for girls has gone up to 21 years according to the 2011 census, as opposed to an earlier age of 16 to 18 years.

Indian Festivals

Suffice to say that festivals form an important part of Indian culture and heritage. Due to the varied religions practiced here, the festivals are also different for each section of people. Popular religious festivals include the Hindu festivals of Navratri, Janmashtami, Diwali, Maha Shivratri, Ganesh Chaturthi, Durga Puja, Holi, Rath Yatra, Ugadi, Onam, Vasant Panchami, Raksha Bandhan, and Dussehra.

Other than these, there are also several harvest festivals celebrated by farmers such as Makar Sankranti, Sohrai, Pusnâ, Chapchar Kut, Pongal, and Raja Sankranti. Islam forms a major part of the religion dynamics in India and festivals which are observed as a public holiday in India are Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha (Bakri Eid), Milad-un-Nabi, Muharram and Shab-e-Barat. Christianity is also practiced by people of India and important days for Roman Catholics such as Christmas, and Good Friday has been declared as national holidays in the Republic of India as well.

Just like its religion and festivals, the cuisine in India is also equally diverse. Foods are influenced by people belonging to different parts of the country, their way of living, the environment, and availability of goods. It is imperative that Indian food is primarily influenced by the diversity of people living in it. Hindu cuisine includes rice, chapatti, vegetable curry, fish, parathas, etc. Islamic cuisine includes Biriyani, Raita, Haleem, Kheema, etc. In the South Indian states, people generally cook food using coconut oil as opposed to the common mustard oil or sunflower oil. This is because coconuts are so easily available in large quantities in the South. South Indian food includes Idli, Sambar, Dosa, Vada, etc.

Traditional clothing is the essence of Indian culture. Clothes depend on the place of origin, climate, and heritage of the particular place. In the state of West Bengal, and also in several southern states such as Tamil Nadu and Karnataka the authentic clothing for women is the Saree that is a single, long piece of fabric draped around the body. For men, the authentic Bengali clothing in Dhoti and Kurta. In the state of Punjab, salwar kameez and Kurti form the traditional clothing for women while men wear headgear or turban known as the Dastar. The Bindi, Mehendi, bangles, and earrings are a part of the attire for women.

The first ever literary work created in India was the Rigveda, in the 19th Century. Written in Sanskrit, the Rigveda laid the foundation of several religious scriptures and literary works in later years. Written by the Aryans, the Yajur Veda and Atharva Veda also soon followed. Other popular literary works created in ancient India are Ramayana by Rishi Valmiki and Mahabharata by Rishi Vyasa. Biographies of kings such as Babarnama (biography of Babur; founder of Mughal Empire) and Akbarnama (biography of Akbar, the greatest king of India) are also priceless literary pieces that give us information about the era. Apart from this certain scripture written by foreign travellers such as Fa Hein and Huein Tsung gives us information about the traditions and lifestyles of people in India.

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UPSC Essay Topics

The Upsc Essay Topics change every year, and aspirants are never sure what they will be. They can be about things like how the economy is doing, how women can be stronger, art and culture, or how the media affects us. Moreover, it’s a good idea to look at the essay questions from previous years to get an idea of what might be asked. This will help you practice writing essays and do well in the exam. With enough practice, you can become good at writing essays for the UPSC exam .

Furthermore, the IAS Essay section is very important in the UPSC exam. It contains 250 marks, and you must write two essay questions in three hours, each 1000 to 1200 words. Additionally, to prepare, it’s a good idea to look at previous upsc essay papers to understand what essay topics upsc might come up in the exam.

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UPSC Essay Topics 2024

The UPSC essay paper is one of the nine papers in the UPSC Mains exam . It’s a chance for candidates to share their opinions on social, economic, and political issues. UPSC usually chooses topics that are either related to current events or have a big impact on society. Moreover, some important IAS essay topics for the UPSC exam could include:

• Development
• Urbanisation
• Globalisation
• Bureaucracy/Civil Service
• Constitution
• Water Security
• Poverty/Hunger/Food Security
• Human Resources- Employment
• Social Media
• Privacy/Surveillance

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UPSC Essay Topics: Previous Year Question Paper

Having access to the previous year’s essay topics can be useful. It gives you an idea of the types of essays asked in previous years. Moreover, That’s why we’ve provided the UPSC essay topics from the previous year’s UPSC question paper below.

• UPSC Essay Topics for year 2022
• UPSC Essay Topics for year 2021
• UPSC Essay Topics for year 2020
• UPSC Essay Topics for year 2019
• UPSC Essay Topics for year 2018

You can also check for how to write an essay for upsc .

UPSC Essay Topics: Topic wise

Here, we will discuss different UPSC Essay Topics that are frequently asked in the UPSC Examination.

UPSC Essay Topics on Administration 

If you want to prepare for Polity and Administration topics for the UPSC exam, you can start by reading books on Polity and Public Administration. Moreover, these books provide basic information about relevant issues and their history, which can be useful when writing essay questions on Polity and Public Administration for the UPSC exam. Some UPSC essay topics on these topics could include:

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• Is autonomy the best answer to combat balkanisation?
• Politics without ethics is a disaster.
• Judicial activism and Indian democracy.
• The language politics in India: its past, present, and future.
• Is a better disaster management system need of the hour?
• Cooperative federalism: Myth or reality.
• Need for transparency in public administration.
• The VIP cult is a bane of Indian democracy.

UPSC Essay Topics on Science and Technology

To write an essay on Science and Technology topics for the UPSC exam, you can start by following current affairs related to this field. You can also refer to books on Science and Technology for UPSC to get a multidimensional perspective. Moreover, some possible Science and Tech UPSC essay topics could include:

• The modern doctor and his patients.
• The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced.
• Alternative technologies for a climate change-resilient India.
• Technology cannot replace manpower.
• Social media is inherently a selfish medium.
• Value-based science and education.
• Cyberspace and Internet: Blessing or curse to the human civilisation in the long run.
• The lure of space.
• Spirituality and scientific temper.
• The march of science and the erosion of human values.
• The cyberworld: Its charms and challenges.
• Science and Mysticism: Are they compatible?

UPSC Essay Topics on Women Empowerment

UPSC encourages gender equality in the workplace and often includes essay topics related to women. The UPSC Essay topics aims to understand the candidate’s level of critical thinking and ability to express their thoughts. Including data, references, and real-life examples can help earn extra marks while writing essays. Moreover, some possible UPSC essay topics related to women and women empowerment could include:

• Challenges and Prospects of Women Empowerment
• Ground realities of the new emerging women power
• Fulfillment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth.
• Is the Indian working woman getting a fair deal- Managing work and home?
• Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.
• What if all the developed countries had women as their heads?
• Greater political power alone will not improve women’s plight.
• Whither women’s emancipation?

UPSC Essay Topics on Indian Culture & Society

The UPSC essay topics related to Indian society, art, and culture are always diverse. To prepare for these topics, candidates can read basic books on society that are typically referred to during the exam. Moreover, you can also use Art & Culture Notes for UPSC to help with your preparation. Some possible UPSC essay topics related to Indian culture and society are:

• Are new cults and godmen threats to the traditional religion?
• Modernism and our traditional socio-ethical values.
• Indian society is at a crossroads.
• The composite culture of Indian society
• Where the Youth culture of today is heading towards
• As civilisation progresses, culture declines.

UPSC Essay Topics on Philosophical Type

Every year, UPSC includes two or more UPSC essay topics related to philosophical thoughts, Indian philosophical schools, or quotes from famous personalities. Students can refer to Philosophy Books for UPSC to prepare for these topics to gain a basic background. Moreover, some possible UPSC essay topics related to philosophy or quotes from famous personalities are:

• Be the change you want to see in others.
• Reality does not conform to the ideal but confirms it.
• The paths of glory lead but to the grave.
• Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds.
• If youth knew if age could.
• Useless life is an early death.
• Search for truth can only be attained through spiritual means.
• Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole.
• Words are sharper than a two-edged sword

UPSC Essay Topics on Education

Education is a popular UPSC essay topics , and almost every year, an essay related to education is asked in the paper. Moreover, to prepare for this topic, staying updated with current affairs and major changes and developments related to the field is important. Some possible UPSC essay topics related to education for UPSC could include:

• Privatisation of the higher education system in India.
• Does growth in literacy correspond to growth in education?
• Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather make a man a more clever devil.
• Concept of Real Education
• Restructuring of the Indian education system with respect to the NEP
• The destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms.
• Education for all”: myth or reality.

UPSC Essay Topics on Economic Growth

UPSC frequently includes IAS essay topics on economic growth, development, and the MNC (multi-national corporation) sector. To prepare for these topics, candidates can refer to Economy Notes for UPSC to get a general overview of the subject. Moreover, once you grasp the basics well, you can add examples, data, and figures to make your essay more multi-dimensional. Some possible UPSC essay topics related to economics for UPSC could include:

• Can tourism be the next big thing for India?
• GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) should be the right indices for judging the well-being of a country.
• Are the Multinational corporations saviours or saboteurs?
• Is the Digital economy a leveller or a source of economic inequality?
• Is it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country?
• Future of BPO Culture in India
• Crisis faced in India – moral or economic.
• Is the near jobless growth in India an anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms?

You can also check for UPSC Calendar 2023 .

Upsc Essay Topics: Things to keep in mind

Writing is a way to show how you think. When an examiner reads your essay, they can understand your thought process. An essay is a well-structured set of ideas on a specific topic. Moreover, to score well on the UPSC Essay paper , it’s important to practice and be persistent. The essay is about factual knowledge, creativity, and critical thinking. To score well on the UPSC Essay paper, follow these steps:

• Choose the Right Essay

The UPSC Essay paper has two sections, and you have to write one essay from each section. Both essays have 125 marks each and must be 1000-1200 words. Before choosing a topic, it’s important to reflect on it and consider if it’s too controversial or if you have enough information to write about it.

• Examine the Topic

When you select UPSC Essay Topics , it’s important to take some time to think about the topic and write down the main keywords that you will use in your essay. This will help you organise your thoughts and ensure you cover all the key points.

Taking a multidimensional approach is important when writing your essay, which means considering different perspectives and angles.

Additionally, structure your essay clearly and concisely, with an introduction that sets the stage for the rest of the essay, a body that covers your main points, and a conclusion that summarises your key ideas and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

• Structure well

The introduction is a crucial part of the UPSC Essay Topics and should provide a brief idea about the topic. It should convey your perspective on the topic. The essay’s main body should be divided into well-connected small paragraphs. The language should be simple, clear, and easy to comprehend.

Moreover, the focus should be on critical thinking rather than using complex vocabulary. If necessary, include relevant facts and data. Using quotes and sayings can add weight to the essay. The conclusion should be clear and concise. While writing, strive for a neutral or balanced approach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Q1: Do UPSC Topics get repeated?

Ans: That’s correct. While UPSC may repeat essay topics from previous years, they are likely to ask a different question with the exact same wording. Instead, they may tweak the language or focus of the question slightly to test a candidate’s understanding and analytical skills. Moreover, it is also true that certain topics, such as history, economics, and Indian polity, tend to be asked more frequently than others.

Q2: How many essay questions are asked in the upsc essay paper?

Ans: The UPSC Essay Paper consists of two sections, each containing four to five essay topics. Candidates need to choose one essay topic from each section and write an essay of 1000 to 1200 words on each topic. Moreover, each essay is worth 125 marks, and the total mark for the UPSC Essay Paper is 250.

Q3: How can I write a good essay for UPSC?

Ans: Keeping notes and staying updated with current affairs is crucial in developing a deep understanding of various topics. Reading books, journals, and other publications related to the UPSC Essay Topics can also help enhance knowledge and vocabulary. Moreover, ractising writing essays regularly and getting feedback from mentors or peers to improve writing skills is also important.

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Preservation of Cultural Heritage

• 07 Jan 2019
• 12 min read
• GS Paper - 1
• Temple Architecture
• Indian Architecture
• Indian Heritage Sites
• Ancient Indian History

Last Updated: October 2022

For Prelims: Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act 1958, ASI, National Monuments Authority, UNESCO’s List of World Heritage Sites

For Mains: Significance of Cultural Heritage, Challenges in Preserving Cultural Heritage

Why in News

• It is alleged that the stones used in restoration do not match the quality of the original stone blocks, which are still available nearby.
• Although the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has denied the allegations, the issue highlights the need for preservation of cultural heritage.

What is Cultural Heritage?

• Immovable heritage includes buildings, historic places and monuments.
• Moveable heritage includes books, documents, moveable artworks, music and other artefacts that are considered worthy of preservation for the future.

What Measures have been Taken for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage?

• It necessitates stringent measures for the protection and preservation of historical monuments.
• Till date, there are 40 designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.
• Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property, 1977
• Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, 2005
• Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, 2006
• India is a Signatory to all the above-mentioned conventions
• Fundamental Right: Under Article 29 of the Indian Constitution - Any section of the citizens residing in the territory of India or any part thereof having a distinct language, script or culture of its own has the right to conserve the same.
• Fundamental Duties: It is the Fundamental Duty of every citizen of India (under Article 51A ) to value and preserve the rich heritage of the country’s composite culture.
• DPSP: Under Article 49 of the Indian Constitution (Directive Principles of State Policy), the State shall protect every monument or place of artistic or historic interest (declared by or under law made by Parliament to be of national importance ) from spoliation, disfigurement, destruction, removal, disposal or export.”
• Statutory Backing: The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act 1958 provides for the preservation of ancient and historical monuments, archaeological sites and remains of national importance.
• It administers more than 3650 ancient monuments, archaeological sites and remains of national importance.
• The National Monuments Authority (NMA) established in accordance with the AMASR Act is responsible for the conservation and preservation of monuments and sites (and banned/restricted areas surrounding centrally designated monuments).
• One of the NMA's roles is to evaluate granting permits to applicants for construction-related activities in restricted and regulated areas.

What is the Significance of Preserving Cultural Heritage?

• Economic Significance:  The cultural industries are key components of modern economies . The prevalence of cultural sites, services and art forms tend to boost tourism, sustain livelihoods, and attract investment.
• Historical-Social Significance:  The non-economic benefits of culture include the preservation of history, the generation of knowledge, and the nurturing of creativity.

What are the Gaps in Ensuring Safety of Heritage Structures in India?

At institutional level lack of efforts in mainstreaming heritage preservation as a career and providing skills remains a formidable challenge.

Infrastructural Shortcomings: There is a lack of convergence between modern-day engineering education and traditional knowledge of construction materials and practices; this is a serious hindrance to preservation of heritage.

Heritage conservation efforts in the private sector in India largel y address only the aesthetic aspect with architects typically steering these projects and structural safety is not in focus.

• India has a large stock of heritage structures, which has to be addressed through a formal platform focussing on their structural safety.
• Lack of Awareness: There is widespread lack of civic sense among domestic visitors who tend to deface historical monuments e.g. by inscribing their names on historical monuments.
• Environmental Pollution: There are several types of environmental pollution which are killing the heritage properties e.g. Taj Mahal was badly affected by Sulphur dioxide etc. emitted by the oil refinery at Mathura.
• Lack of Funding: Finances continue to be crucial challenges for preservation of cultural heritage. The conservation and preservation of heritage has not received due attention from public authorities.
• Lack of Centre-State Coordination: Despite the presence of some of the best conservation and heritage management institutions in India like Indian National Trust for Art & Cultural Heritage (INTACH) , a multidisciplinary approach to practising heritage conservation is lacking due to lack of coordination between the centre and the state.
• Also, local bodies involved in urban heritage projects are often not equipped enough to handle heritage conservation.

What More Can be Done to Preserve India’s Cultural Heritage?

• The inscription of properties on the World Heritage List and the List of World Heritage in Danger.
• The protection and conservation of World Heritage properties.
• The granting of International Assistance under the World Heritage Fund.
• The mobilization of national and international support in favour of the Convention.
• Economic viability of heritage will be a by-product of the process due to a revival of traditional arts and crafts, known popularly as intangible heritage, and initiation of new disciplines.
• Need for partnerships with various institutions and organisations for specialised conservation works is required to fill in the specific expertise gap in ASI.
• Heritage Projects need to be synced with the planning of the city and merge with typical historic character in different areas of the city.
• There is a need to create awareness about the heritage resource and spread a quest for heritage preservation among the local population and the visitors.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Q1. Which of the following is/are among the Fundamental Duties of citizens laid down in the Indian Constitution? (2012)

• To preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture
• To protect the weaker sections from social injustice
• To develop the scientific temper and the spirit of inquiry
• To strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

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

Q2. Recently, which one of the following was included in the UNESCO’s World Heritage list? (2009)

(a) Dilwara Temple (b) Kalka-Shimla Railway (c) Bhiterkanika Mangrove Area  (d) Visakhapatnam to Araku valley railway line

Q. Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the moment. Discuss. (2018)