Problem of National Integration

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It is a pleasure and privilege to write this Foreword for the volume on the problem of National Integration, written by Shashi Prakash a talented and able Principal of Government College in Uttar Pradesh. This is a highly original and scientific work covering for the first time all the phases of the problem of Indian National Integration in a coherent, unified and systematic treatment. Such treatment happily goes beyond the boundaries of sociology into the study of the plurality of cultural norms, traditions and values of India divided in terms of religions, region, language, caste and class. Indian society is not simply a conglomeration of various ethnic, religious, linguistic, caste and regional collectivities. It is also quite complex in terms of differentiation in each are of the collectivities and their historical and socio cultural specificities. Indian society is panorama, to a large extent a unique one, which absorbed diverse languages, cultures, religions and people of different social origins at different points of time in the past. These diversities are reflected in patterns of life, styles of living, land tenure systems, occupational pursuits, inheritance and succession rules and rites de passage. The British rule in India accentuated some of these socio-cultural and economic differences. The idea of integration is inherent today in India's constitution which pronounces values of secularism, socialism and democracy at its main ideals. From this viewpoint this solid work should be regarded as a significant and pioneer study on the problem of national integration in present Indian socio-cultural set-up.

Ideological differences are natural in society because of its structural and cultural complexities, but a certain level of consensus about ‘‘national goals’’ is basic for keeping people together as a nation. There are some very positive aspects of national integration. Besides fostering a sense of emotional oneness, national integration provides strength to the people to fight against evil forces. Socio-Cultural and economic disparities and inequalities tend to reduce in a situation of national unity and solidarity Fisseiparous and divisive forces become inactive when national unity is intense and a comprehensive. National integration is a positive notion, and therefore, can accelerate the pace of development and social change. In this research endeavour Dr. Shashi Prakash has discussed the concept of the national integration, communalism, nationalism, regionalism, political opportunism and caste-ism, tribalism, linguism etc. in relation to the problem of national integration. An analysis of the view of political elites i.e. the Members of Vidhan Sabha of Uttar Pradesh regarding national integration and the hurdles in its realisation shows that the ‘’identity crisis’’ is the main obstacle of national integration. Structural inequalities tend to create an identity crisis among minorities. Besides cultural and ideological integration, structural integration is needed equally or even more.

**Contents and Sample Pages**