Erode Venkata Ramaswamy Naicker, popularly known as Periyar, was a pioneering social reformer, rationalist, and political thinker who played a foundational role in critiquing the caste-based inequalities and religious orthodoxy prevalent in Indian society, particularly in Tamil Nadu. Born in 1879, Periyar emerged as a key figure in the anti-caste and anti-Brahmanical movements of the…
Tag: politics
Describe the salient features of M.S. Golwalkar’s Hindu Nationalism
M.S. Golwalkar (1906–1973), the second Sarsanghchalak (Chief of the RSS), was one of the most influential figures in the ideological development of Hindu nationalism in post-independence India. His ideas, articulated primarily in his books We, or Our Nationhood Defined (1939) and Bunch of Thoughts (1966), continue to shape the ideological framework of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak…
B.R. Ambedkar’s Critique of the Caste System
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (1891–1956) is widely recognized as one of the most influential social reformers and architects of modern India. As a champion of the rights of the Dalits (historically referred to as “untouchables”), Ambedkar’s critique of the caste system was profound, intellectual, and revolutionary. His analysis of the caste system not only challenged its…
Sri Aurobindo’s Vision of Nationalism
Sri Aurobindo (1872–1950), one of India’s most influential nationalist leaders, philosophers, and spiritual thinkers, developed a distinctive and profound vision of nationalism that blended spiritual ideas with the political and social aspirations of the Indian people. His philosophy of nationalism evolved during his time as an active participant in the Indian freedom struggle and later…
Raja Ram Mohan Roy as a Social Reformer
Raja Ram Mohan Roy (1772–1833) is often hailed as one of the foremost social reformers in 19th-century India. Known as the “Father of the Indian Renaissance,” his contributions to the social, cultural, and educational spheres were groundbreaking and transformative. His reforms laid the foundation for modern Indian thought and helped in shaping the trajectory of…
Describe the nature of state and sovereignty in Medieval India
The concept of the state and sovereignty in Medieval India underwent a significant transformation from the early medieval period to the later periods. The nature of the state during this era was not uniform; it was shaped by regional powers, the influence of Islam, the existence of various dynasties, and a complex relationship between religion…
Discuss the emerging economic cooperation between India and Central Asia.
India’s relationship with Central Asia has grown in importance over the past few decades, particularly with the realization of the region’s strategic economic, geopolitical, and energy significance. Central Asia, located at the heart of the Eurasian landmass, is a critical region for India’s foreign policy, as it offers opportunities for economic cooperation, regional connectivity, and…
Explain the Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy
India’s foreign policy is shaped by a combination of both internal and external factors, reflecting its unique geopolitical position, historical experiences, and economic goals. Below are the key determinants that have influenced India’s foreign policy over the years: Historical Context and Legacy India’s foreign policy is deeply rooted in its historical experiences, particularly its colonial…
India’s Disarmament Policy
India’s disarmament policy has been shaped by its strategic and security concerns, as well as its desire for global peace and stability. While India has consistently advocated for nuclear disarmament and the reduction of conventional arms, its approach to disarmament has been shaped by its unique position as a non-signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty…
Explain the Complex Interdependence Perspectives of India’s Foreign Policy
The concept of “complex interdependence” was introduced by international relations scholars Robert Keohane and Joseph Nye as an alternative to the realist framework, which emphasizes military power and state-centric approaches in international politics. In contrast, complex interdependence stresses the importance of multiple, overlapping channels of interaction between states and non-state actors in the global system,…
Regional Cooperation in Contemporary International Relations
Regional cooperation is central to addressing the global challenges faced by states today, particularly in the areas of trade, security, and environmental sustainability. In contemporary international relations, regional cooperation has evolved into a significant tool for addressing shared problems and advancing collective interests, especially in an era of globalization. 1. Economic and Trade Cooperation Regional…
Discuss the India-China Border Dispute
The India-China border dispute is one of the most significant and longstanding territorial conflicts in the world. It has its roots in the complex historical, cultural, and geopolitical factors that have shaped the relationship between the two Asian giants. The issue primarily involves the delineation of boundaries in the Aksai Chin region in the west,…