The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): India, the world’s fifth-largest economy and home to over 1.4 billion people, stands as a shining example of unity in diversity, with its vibrant mosaic of over 2,000 ethnic groups and more than 1,600 languages. As the global community moves towards a more interconnected and interdependent world, India’s experience in managing and celebrating its cultural diversity serves as a valuable lesson for other nations.
India’s approach to diversity has been shaped by its long history of accommodating multiple religions, languages, and ethnic groups within its borders. The country’s constitution recognizes 22 official languages and protects the rights of minorities to preserve their culture and identity. India’s federal structure, consisting of 28 states and 8 union territories, allows for regional autonomy, enabling states to adopt policies that reflect their linguistic and cultural diversity.
The ancient Indian scriptures, such as the Rigveda, emphasize the importance of unity in diversity. The famous hymn “Ekam Sat Vipra Bahudha Vadanti” (Truth is one, the wise call it by many names) encapsulates India’s philosophical approach to embracing diversity. The Bhagavad Gita, another revered text, teaches that all paths lead to the same divine reality, promoting tolerance and acceptance of different beliefs and practices.
In contrast to other top economies, such as the United States and China, which have faced significant challenges in managing their cultural diversity, India has demonstrated leadership in promoting inclusivity and harmony. The United States, with a population of 331 million, has grappled with racial and ethnic tensions, while China, with 1.4 billion people and 56 officially recognized ethnic groups, has faced criticism for its treatment of minority groups in regions such as Xinjiang and Tibet.
India’s leadership in embracing cultural diversity is exemplified by its efforts to address challenges through inclusive policies and initiatives. The government has implemented affirmative action programs, such as reservations in educational institutions and government jobs, for historically disadvantaged groups, including Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). According to the 2011 census, SCs and STs comprise 16.6% and 8.6% of India’s population, respectively. These measures aim to ensure that all cultural groups have equal opportunities and can participate fully in the nation’s social, economic, and political life.
The International BRICS+ School in India, established under government guidance and in collaboration with the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), is playing a significant role in addressing cultural diversity issues related to border disputes, proxy conflicts, cross-border terrorism, and diplomatic standoffs. The school serves as a platform for fostering cross-cultural understanding, promoting dialogue, and developing innovative solutions to global challenges.
Through its multifaceted approach, the BRICS+ School organizes cultural exchange programs, conducts research on cross-border issues, and facilitates track-two diplomacy initiatives. By bringing together scholars, policymakers, and community leaders from diverse backgrounds, the school is creating a space for constructive dialogue and collaboration, aimed at building bridges across cultural divides.
India’s leadership in cultural diversity is not limited to its domestic policies and initiatives. The country has also taken an active role in promoting cultural understanding and cooperation on the global stage. Through its engagement with international organizations such as the United Nations and UNESCO, India has advocated for the protection and promotion of cultural diversity worldwide. India is home to 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reflecting its rich cultural and natural heritage.
India’s soft power, rooted in its rich cultural heritage, has also played a significant role in fostering global understanding and appreciation for diversity. From yoga, which is practiced by over 300 million people worldwide, to Bollywood, which has a global audience of over 3 billion, India’s cultural exports have captured the hearts and minds of people around the world, helping to build bridges and promote cultural exchange.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, India’s leadership in embracing cultural diversity serves as a beacon for other nations. By demonstrating that unity and harmony can thrive amidst diversity, India offers a model for building a more inclusive and peaceful global community.
However, India’s journey towards a more inclusive society is not without its challenges. Deep-rooted social inequalities, political exploitation of identity issues, and economic disparities between cultural groups persist, hindering progress towards a truly harmonious society. Incidents of violence against minority communities and controversial policies such as the Citizenship Amendment Act, which has been criticized for its potential to disenfranchise Muslim immigrants, have highlighted the need for continued efforts to promote tolerance and equality.
To address these challenges and cement its position as a global leader in cultural diversity, India must redouble its efforts to implement inclusive policies, strengthen legal frameworks to protect rights of underserved communities, and promote equitable economic development.
Moreover, India must continue to engage in proactive diplomacy with its neighbors to resolve border disputes, address historical grievances, and promote regional stability. The ongoing India-China border standoff, which began in May 2020, and the long-standing Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan underscore the importance of fostering a spirit of mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation in building a more peaceful and prosperous South Asian region.
Through initiatives like the BRICS+ School and its engagement with the international community, India is well-positioned to lead the way in shaping a future where diversity is celebrated as a source of strength and unity. As the ancient Indian scripture Maha Upanishad states, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The world is one family), India’s embrace of cultural diversity exemplifies this timeless wisdom, offering a path forward for the global community.
Prof. Dr. A V Srinivasan
