26 Nov Secularism and Socialism: Inalienable Pillars of the Indian Constitution
This article covers “Daily Current Affairs” and topic details of Secular and Socialist: Inalienable Pillars of the Indian Constitution
Syllabus mapping:
GS-2: Indian Polity: The basic features of the Indian Constitution
For Prelims:
What is the Indian socialism? various constitutional provisions related to socialism in India. What are the policies of the GOI to implement the welfare state model?
For Mains:
What are the features of Indian socialism and its significance in India and what ways to reinforce the welfare state model in India?
Why in the News?
The Supreme Court of India recently upheld the inclusion of the terms “secular” and “socialist” in the Preamble of the Constitution, declaring them an inalienable part of its structure. The decision came while dismissing petitions filed in 2020 that challenged their addition through the 42nd Constitution Amendment Act, 1976. The petitioners argued that the terms were inserted retrospectively and alleged they restricted economic policy choices and contradicted the Constituent Assembly’s intentions. However, the Court reaffirmed Parliament’s authority to amend the Constitution under Article 368 and emphasized its status as a living document, adaptable to evolving societal needs.
Image credit: TH
Socialism in India:
Definition: According to the Apes Court, Socialism embodies a Republic committed to eradicating all forms of exploitation—social, political, and economic—while promoting equity and justice.
Features of Socialism in India
Welfare State: The Indian Constitution commits to functioning as a welfare state, ensuring social justice and the upliftment of all citizens.
Mixed Economy: India adopts a mixed economy model, allowing the coexistence of both public and private sectors for economic development.
Equity and Justice: Focus on reducing economic and social inequalities, eliminating exploitation in all forms.
Democratic Approach: Socialism in India does not align strictly with Marxist ideology but promotes democratic socialism, ensuring freedom of enterprise while safeguarding citizens’ rights.
Economic Flexibility: The term “socialist” does not mandate adherence to a specific economic structure, allowing successive governments to design policies according to the people’s needs.
Significance of Socialism in India
Social Justice: Promotes equitable distribution of resources to bridge the gap between rich and poor. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), 2005: Provides guaranteed employment to rural households, reducing income disparities. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989: Protects marginalized groups from exploitation and ensures social equality.
Inclusive Development: Ensures representation and development of marginalized and weaker sections of society. Policies like Reservation, PMAY, and NFSA 2013 promote inclusive development by ensuring opportunities for marginalized communities, affordable housing, and food security, aligning with India’s socialist goals.
Economic Stability: Encourages balanced economic policies that cater to both public welfare and private enterprise. Policies like Industrial Policy Resolution (mixed economy), PDS (food security), PMJDY (financial inclusion).
Constitutional Mandate: Embedded in the Preamble and reinforced through Articles that safeguard economic and social rights. The establishment of the national commissions for SC, ST, and CBC stemmed from the idea of socialism.
Challenges to Indian Socialism
1. Economic Inequalities: Persistent wealth disparities despite welfare policies. There is a growing gap between the rich and the poor due to inadequate implementation of redistributive measures.
2. Unemployment and Poverty: High unemployment rates and widespread poverty hinder the realization of socialism’s goals—limited access to basic resources like education, healthcare, and housing for marginalized communities.
3. Regional Disparities: Uneven economic development among states undermines the principle of equitable growth.
4. Privatization and Liberalization: The shift toward market-driven policies dilutes the focus on welfare. The rising influence of private players reduces state control in key sectors, impacting public welfare.
5. Corruption and Governance Issues: Mismanagement and corruption in welfare schemes lead to inefficiencies. Lack of accountability erodes public trust in state institutions.
6. Social Discrimination: Caste, gender, and community-based discrimination continue to challenge social justice.
Ways to Uphold the Socialist Principle of the Indian Constitution
1. Policies for Vulnerable Sections (e.g., Women): Implementing measures such as one-third reservation for women in local bodies, education, and employment ensures equal participation and empowerment, promoting social justice for marginalized groups.
2. Upholding Constitutional Mandates (National Commissions): Strengthening national commissions like the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Minorities, and Women, ensuring their recommendations and rights are actively supported by the government.
3. Support to Public Sector for Regional Development: Fostering growth through public sector enterprises in key industries (e.g., coal, steel, energy) to drive regional development and reduce disparities, especially in rural and economically backward areas.
4. Policies to Reduce Poverty (e.g., National Food Security Act): The National Food Security Act (NFSA) ensures subsidized food grains for the poor, combating hunger and malnutrition, contributing to reducing poverty and ensuring economic equality.
5. Support to Poor and Marginalized Groups (e.g., Farmers through PM Kisan Scheme): Providing direct income support through schemes like PM Kisan for farmers, and welfare initiatives for daily wage workers, ensures social security and reduces economic vulnerabilities.
6. Equal Opportunities for All Sections of Society: Policies such as reservation in education and jobs, along with social security schemes, provide equal opportunities for backward classes, SC/STs, OBCs, and economically disadvantaged groups, fostering inclusivity.
7. Responsible Capitalism for Inclusive Growth: Encouraging a mixed economy where capitalism works responsibly, with regulations to ensure social responsibility (e.g., Corporate Social Responsibility), ensuring businesses contribute to equitable and sustainable development.
Conclusion
The inclusion of “secular” and “socialist” in the Preamble reflects India’s commitment to ensuring equality among its diverse population while promoting social welfare. The Supreme Court’s interpretations reinforce these values as essential components of constitutional governance
Download Plutus IAS Current Affairs ENG MED 26th Nov 2024 pdf
Prelims question:
Q. 1. Which of the following constitutional provisions are associated with socialism in India?
1. Fundamental Duties
2. Schedule Nine
3. Preamble
4. Part 15 of the constitution.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. Only three
D. All four
ANSWER: C
Mains questions:
In the context of the recent Supreme Court judgment on Indian socialism. Discuss its features, significance, and challenges. suggest the ways to uphold the socialistic principle of the Indian constitution. ( Answer in 250 words)
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