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UPSC MainsENGLISH-COMPULSORY20125 Marks
Q34.

active

How to Approach

This question, simply stating "active," requires interpretation within the context of the UPSC syllabus. It likely intends to assess the candidate's understanding of active citizenship, active governance, or active participation in democratic processes. The answer should define 'active' in a relevant context, explore its importance, and provide examples of how it manifests in the Indian context. A structure focusing on defining active participation, its significance in a democracy, challenges to it, and ways to promote it would be ideal.

Model Answer

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Introduction

In a democratic framework, the concept of ‘active’ extends beyond merely casting a vote. It embodies a dynamic engagement of citizens in the governance process, encompassing participation in policy-making, holding authorities accountable, and contributing to societal well-being. India, as the world’s largest democracy, relies heavily on the active participation of its citizenry for effective governance and inclusive development. However, despite constitutional provisions guaranteeing fundamental rights, levels of active citizenship remain varied. This answer will explore the meaning of ‘active’ in the context of Indian democracy, its importance, the challenges faced, and potential avenues for enhancement.

Defining ‘Active’ in the Indian Context

‘Active’ in the context of Indian democracy can be understood through several lenses:

  • Political Participation: This includes voting, contesting elections, participating in political rallies, and engaging with elected representatives.
  • Civic Engagement: This encompasses activities like volunteering, participating in local governance (Panchayats, Municipalities), and advocating for community needs.
  • Social Activism: This involves raising awareness about social issues, protesting against injustice, and working towards social change.
  • Accountability & Transparency: Demanding transparency from government, utilizing mechanisms like the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, and holding public officials accountable.

Significance of Active Citizenship

Active citizenship is crucial for a thriving democracy for several reasons:

  • Strengthening Democracy: Active participation ensures that the government is responsive to the needs and concerns of the people.
  • Promoting Good Governance: Citizen engagement enhances transparency, accountability, and efficiency in governance.
  • Social Justice & Equity: Active citizens can advocate for the rights of marginalized groups and promote social justice.
  • Nation Building: A sense of ownership and responsibility among citizens fosters nation-building and sustainable development.

Challenges to Active Citizenship in India

Despite its importance, several challenges hinder active citizenship in India:

  • Political Apathy: Low voter turnout, particularly among youth, indicates a lack of political interest and engagement. According to the Election Commission of India, voter turnout in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections was 67.11%, indicating significant scope for improvement.
  • Lack of Awareness: Many citizens are unaware of their rights and responsibilities, as well as the mechanisms available for participation.
  • Social Inequalities: Marginalized communities often face barriers to participation due to poverty, discrimination, and lack of access to information.
  • Criminalization of Politics: The presence of individuals with criminal backgrounds in politics erodes public trust and discourages genuine participation.
  • Bureaucratic Inertia: A slow and unresponsive bureaucracy can stifle citizen initiatives and discourage engagement.
  • Digital Divide: Unequal access to technology and digital literacy limits online participation and access to information.

Promoting Active Citizenship

Several measures can be taken to promote active citizenship in India:

  • Civic Education: Integrating civic education into the school curriculum to instill a sense of responsibility and democratic values.
  • Strengthening Local Governance: Empowering Panchayats and Municipalities to enable greater citizen participation at the grassroots level. The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts (1992) were significant steps in this direction.
  • Promoting RTI & Social Audit: Encouraging the use of the RTI Act and promoting social audits to enhance transparency and accountability.
  • Leveraging Technology: Utilizing digital platforms to facilitate citizen engagement, provide information, and enable online participation. The MyGov platform is an example.
  • Encouraging Volunteerism: Promoting volunteerism and community service to foster a sense of social responsibility.
  • Media’s Role: Responsible media reporting and promoting awareness about civic issues.

Examples of Active Citizenship in India

Several examples demonstrate active citizenship in India:

  • Narmada Bachao Andolan: A social movement led by Medha Patkar against the construction of the Sardar Sarovar Dam, highlighting citizen activism and environmental concerns.
  • Anna Hazare’s Anti-Corruption Movement (2011): A widespread protest movement demanding the enactment of the Jan Lokpal Bill, demonstrating citizen mobilization against corruption.
  • Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009: Citizen advocacy played a crucial role in the enactment of this landmark legislation guaranteeing free and compulsory education to children.

Conclusion

Active citizenship is not merely a desirable attribute of a democracy; it is its lifeblood. While India has made progress in strengthening democratic institutions, fostering a culture of active participation remains a critical challenge. By addressing the existing barriers and implementing proactive measures to empower citizens, India can unlock its full potential as a vibrant and inclusive democracy. A sustained focus on civic education, strengthening local governance, and leveraging technology will be crucial in cultivating a more engaged and responsible citizenry.

Answer Length

This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.

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Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Civic Engagement
Civic engagement refers to the ways in which people participate in public life, including voting, volunteering, community organizing, and advocating for policy changes.
Social Audit
A process in which the performance of a public program or scheme is evaluated by the intended beneficiaries, rather than by government officials or external auditors.

Key Statistics

According to the National Election Watch and Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, 23% of the elected MPs had criminal records.

Source: National Election Watch and ADR (2019)

As of 2023, India has over 240 million registered voters in the 18-25 age group, representing a significant potential for increased political participation. (Based on knowledge cutoff - data changes with each election)

Source: Election Commission of India (estimated, 2023)

Examples

Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS)

MKSS is a grassroots movement in Rajasthan that pioneered the use of social audits to ensure transparency and accountability in government spending on public works projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶What is the role of youth in promoting active citizenship?

Youth are crucial for promoting active citizenship as they are the future leaders and innovators. Encouraging their participation in political processes, providing platforms for their voices to be heard, and fostering a sense of social responsibility are essential.

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