With increase in education and economic development is Indian society becoming more secular. (UPSC CSE Mains 2018 - Sociology, Paper 2)
Secularism and tolerance for individuals'' rights appear to precede economic development. Secularisation may lead to economic development of a country when it is accompanied by a greater respect for individual rights, a study measuring the importance of religion in 109 countries has found. Many studies show that a decline in religion influences a country''s future economic prosperity. It is well documented that rich countries tend to be secular whilst poor countries tend to be religious. Max Weber has argued that changes in religion drive economic productivity. Cultural values of secularism and tolerance have historically been very important in creating societies that go on to be economically successful. Economics scholars and an International Monetary Fund paper had earlier indicated that tolerance expands opportunities for economic activity to previously excluded groups. Unless there is social cohesion, communal harmony and religious tolerance, the progress and development of the country will suffer. With robust macro-economic fundamentals in place, India is projected to be the third largest economy in the world by 2028.
Education, western education to be specific, played an important role in diminishing Indian culture, and the practice of western culture became more prominent. Modern education encouraged the generation to seek a scientific attitude in solving problems and the traditional religious beliefs. Marriage is now based on a secular attitude rather than a sacred religious ceremony. The following traits characterize education for secularism in India:
- Secular aims
- Democratic organization of educational institutions
- Multiple curriculums
- Science teaching
- Enlightened teachers
The present Indian educational system is trying to create a social climate in the country, in which secular values are sought to be promoted effectively and enthusiastically. It is laid down in the constitution that religious minorities are free to establish their educational institutions from grant. Secularism is a philosophy of moral education. Secular behavior springs in the school from the influence of school through the conduct and behavior of teachers themselves and life in the school community as a whole.
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