The essentials
The state is the set of institutions that exercises legitimate authority over a territory: legislature, executive, judiciary, police and bureaucracy. In a plural society the state must be neutral among communities and protect the rights of all citizens. A state can also become authoritarian, curbing freedoms and silencing dissent.
Civil society is the broad arena that lies beyond the private domain of family but outside both the state and the market. It is made up of voluntary associations, non-governmental organisations, the media, trade unions, citizens' groups, religious and cultural bodies and social movements. Through civil society, citizens organise to pursue public causes and to hold the state accountable.
In India, the importance of civil society was shown during the Emergency (1975–77), when fundamental rights were suspended, the press was censored, opposition leaders were jailed and coercive programmes such as forced sterilisation were carried out. The experience revived public awareness of democratic rights. Since then, civil society organisations have campaigned on issues such as the environment, women's rights, tribal rights, consumer protection and transparency. The campaign for the right to information led to the Right to Information Act of 2005, which allows citizens to seek information from public authorities.
Key points
- Civil society is distinct from the family (private), the state (official power) and the market (profit).
- A strong civil society checks the misuse of state power.
- NGOs and movements often voice the concerns of marginalised groups.
- Freedom of expression and a free press are essential for civil society.
Exam tips
Learn the "beyond family, outside state and market" definition, and the Emergency and RTI as examples.
Common mistakes
Do not include business firms or government departments under civil society.