Challenges of Unity in Diversity
Indian Society, Unit IV. Covers Communalism, regionalism and casteism; Communities, nations and nation-states; State and civil society.
About this unit
India has immense diversity of language, religion, region, caste and tribe. This unit explores how a nation can be built while respecting such diversity, and the challenges that arise when group identities become sources of conflict. It discusses communalism, regionalism and casteism, the relationship between communities, nations and nation-states, and the roles of the state and civil society in a plural democracy.
Key ideas
- Community identity is ascriptive: we are born into it, and it gives belonging
- Nation as a community that has a state or aspires to one
- Assimilationist versus integrationist approaches to diversity
- Communalism as aggressive chauvinism based on religious identity
- Regionalism, linguistic states and federalism
- Civil society as the space between family, state and market
How to prepare
Learn clear definitions of communalism, regionalism, nation and civil society, since questions often test them. Remember examples such as the linguistic reorganisation of states and the Emergency of 1975–77. Be ready to identify an assimilationist or integrationist policy from a described case.
Topics in this chapter
Communalism, regionalism and casteism
Threats to unity, and patriarchy.
5 questionsCommunities, nations and nation-states
Cultural diversity and national identity.
5 questionsState and civil society
Their roles in a plural and unequal society.
5 questions