Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India, despite its rich cultural heritage and advancements in education, grapples with a complex interplay of traditional and modern values. While education is often seen as a catalyst for positive change, it doesn’t automatically translate into ethical or socially responsible behavior. The term ‘undesirable values’ refers to attitudes and behaviors that hinder societal progress, erode trust, and compromise ethical standards. Increasingly, concerns are being raised about the prevalence of certain negative tendencies among educated Indians, impacting governance, public life, and interpersonal relationships. This answer will discuss some of these prevalent undesirable values, their roots, and their implications.
Undesirable Values Among Educated Indians
Several undesirable values are increasingly observed among educated Indians, impacting various facets of life. These can be broadly categorized as follows:
1. Ethical and Moral Lapses
- Corruption & Nepotism: Despite higher education, instances of corruption, bribery, and favouritism persist, even within educated circles. The 2023 Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index (CPI) ranked India 85th out of 180 countries, indicating a significant level of perceived corruption.
- Lack of Integrity: Plagiarism in academic research, falsification of data, and unethical professional practices are becoming increasingly common.
- Erosion of Civic Virtue: A decline in respect for public property, disregard for rules and regulations, and a lack of participation in civic duties are observable trends.
2. Social Values & Attitudes
- Casteism & Discrimination: Despite constitutional provisions, caste-based discrimination continues to exist, even among educated individuals, influencing social interactions and opportunities. The Sachar Committee Report (2006) highlighted the socio-economic disparities faced by Muslims in India, often linked to social discrimination.
- Gender Inequality: Patriarchal attitudes and gender bias persist, limiting opportunities for women and perpetuating societal inequalities. According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019-21), sex ratio at birth remains skewed in several states.
- Communalism & Intolerance: Increased polarization and intolerance towards different religious and cultural groups are concerning trends, often fueled by misinformation and biased narratives.
- Consumerism & Materialism: An excessive focus on material possessions and a consumerist lifestyle often overshadows ethical considerations and social responsibility.
3. Professional & Work Ethic
- Lack of Discipline & Commitment: A decline in work ethic, procrastination, and a lack of commitment to professional responsibilities are observed in some segments.
- Short-term Focus & Lack of Patience: A preference for quick gains and a lack of patience for long-term goals hinder innovation and sustainable development.
- ‘Degree-ism’ over Skill-based Learning: Overemphasis on academic degrees rather than practical skills and competencies leads to unemployability and a mismatch between education and industry needs.
- Brain Drain: The emigration of highly skilled and educated individuals to other countries, depriving India of valuable human capital. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, over 13.5 million Indians live abroad (as of 2021).
4. Digital Ethics & Online Behavior
- Cyberbullying & Online Harassment: The anonymity offered by the internet facilitates cyberbullying, online harassment, and the spread of misinformation.
- Privacy Violations & Data Security Concerns: A lack of awareness regarding data privacy and security leads to vulnerability to cyber threats and exploitation.
- Spread of Fake News & Misinformation: Educated individuals often contribute to the spread of fake news and misinformation through social media platforms, impacting public opinion and social harmony.
Root Causes: These undesirable values stem from a complex interplay of factors including socio-economic disparities, historical legacies, a flawed education system that prioritizes rote learning over critical thinking, rapid social change, and the influence of global trends. The weakening of traditional social institutions and the rise of individualism also contribute to this phenomenon.
Conclusion
Addressing these undesirable values requires a multi-pronged approach. Strengthening ethical education at all levels, promoting critical thinking and civic engagement, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, and addressing socio-economic inequalities are crucial steps. Furthermore, promoting media literacy and responsible digital citizenship is essential in the age of information overload. Ultimately, cultivating a sense of social responsibility and ethical consciousness among educated Indians is vital for building a just, equitable, and sustainable society.
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.