SECULARISM IN INDIA: A CONCEPT TO SOLVE PROBLEMS OF THE MINORITIES

Abstract

India is a great country. It is geographically vibrant, culturally colorful, socially stable and truly incredible. We give the superb status to our country as a mother and call her - "Bharat Mata". She has had a unique connection between nature and its rich heritage, ancient traditions, spirituality, culture and architecture. From the majestic Himalayan peaks in the North, to the Sun-kissed beaches in the South; from the Great Indian Desert in the West, to the breathtaking natural heritage in the East makes the wonderful beauty of our country. India’s excellent heritage, vast resources and biodiversity is a source of pride and strength for its citizens. It is the largest democracy and the second most-populous nation in the world with a population of 1.3 billion people. While 69 per cent live in rural areas, 31 per cent reside in thriving urban centers. Besides all these characteristics, we have multi religious society that believes in different faiths. There are many religions in our country. In addition to Hindu religion we have Buddhists, Jainism, Islam, Sikhism, Christianity, Parsee and Jewish religion. But Hindus are greater in number than others and form majority. There is no doubt that in spite of varied groups, sects, denominations and sub sections, basically we believe in doctrine of Karma and principle of Dharma and we have faith in main slogan “Sab Ka Sath Sabka Vikas” (Collective effort- inclusive growth). But, in spite of Indian government efforts to improve the conditions, religious minorities face the problem of prejudice and discrimination. This research paper focuses on factors and remedy of such problems. It also emphasizes the importance of the concept of secularism and suggests the solutions of socio-economic problems faced by the minorities in modern India.