Question 1DiscussGS2GS2

India is often referred to as the 'Mother of Democracy'. Discuss the democratic roots in ancient Indian civilizational ethos.

Introduction

India is often referred to as 'Mother of Democracy' due to its civilisational continuity & tradition of participatory decision making. G20 Presidency document (2023) acknowledged democratic legacy from Sabhas to modern Parliament.

32 words

Main Body

Democratic roots in ancient civilisational ethos:

1. Vedic institutions - Sabha (council of elders) & Samiti (People's Assembly) were early deliberative bodies involving community participation. Allowed women participation, making them representative & unique (unlike Greek & other classical forms of proto-democracy).

2. Republics & Gana Sanghas - Mahajanpadas like Lichhavis & Mallas were republic setups where decision making process was collective. Megasthanes & Buddhist texts note them and describe them as proto-democracies.

3. Culture of religious tolerance & peaceful coexistence - Multiple religious ideologies call Indian subcontinent their home (eg. Buddhism, Jainism).

Despite royal patronage for one religion or another, practice of different religions in society were prevalent. This evidences proto-freedom of religion & secular societies.

Ashokan edicts promoted ethical governance, religious tolerance & welfare of all, representing democratic ideals.

4. Panchayati Raj traditions - Uttaramerur inscriptions (Chola era) show existence of self governance systems through elected committees, often with codified qualifications.

These grassroots democratic practices shaped post 1947 Panchayati Raj Institutions.

5. Bhakti and Sufi movements promoted multi-linguistic, equal, multi-religious coexistence - key values for a democracy.

— Disha Dhankhar · AIR 235

181 words1 paragraphs3 bullet points

Conclusion

India's democratic journey is not a recent import, rather a culture long practiced & perfected over time. Modern India draws from their strength to meet aspirations of diverse population today.

30 words

Examiner score

1.7/10

Open original scan

Page 3

Steal this copy's techniques PremiumAI pulls out the reusable moves — pick the ones you want as flashcards

Compare my answer PremiumSee where this topper beats you

Topper

Disha Dhankhar

AIR 2352025

Subject & Paper

GS2GS2

Topic

1. Indian Constitution - Historical Underpinnings, Evolution, Features, Amendments, Significant Provisions and Basic Structure

Historical Underpinnings

Democratic Roots in Ancient India

Writing Stats

243

Total words

Paragraphs

Bullets

analytical

Tone

Linked PYQ

5. अधोलिखिताः सर्वे प्रश्नाः संस्कृतभाषया समाधेयाः — Answer all of the following (to be written in Sanskrit language) : 10×5=50 (a) पुरुषार्थेषु धर्मस्य वैशिष्ट्यं समीक्ष्यताम्। Examine the significance of Dharma from among the Puruṣārthas. (b) विवाहसंस्कारस्य महत्त्वं वर्णयत। Discuss the importance of the Vivāha-saṁskāra. (c) ब्रह्मचर्याश्रमम् अध्ययनविधिं च वर्णयत। Describe the Brahmacaryāśrama and the system of education. (d) प्राचीनभारतस्य चित्रकलामधिकृत्य एकं निबन्धं लिखत। Write an essay on the art of painting in ancient India. (e) प्राचीनभारतस्य मूर्तिकलायाः वर्णनं कुरुत। Discuss the art of iconography of ancient India.

50M2021समाधेयाः