State and society in India : studies in nation-building

Discussions on state and society invariably focus on the class character of the state and the nature of civil society, as also on the relationship between them. But rarely does one come across a conceptual analysis of the interrelationship between state and society in the context of nation-building. This is important because, without exception, the terms society and nation-state are used synonymously, and nation and state inter changeably.

This book, which presents a bold and refreshing analysis, characterizes the Indian polity as constituting a large number of 'na tions' and 'ethnies'. The deep attachment of each 'nation' to its homeland, coupled with the underdeveloped state of the economy, gives rise to a distinction between 'insiders' and 'outsiders', a rupture that is a major source of the tensions and conflict in inde pendent India.

In this analysis of the problematique of nation-building in India, Prof. Oommen asserts that most of these conflicts are the result of erroneous conceptualizations aris ing out of misplaced polarities which jux tapose nation and state, political nationalism and cultural nationalism, Indianism' and 'localism'. These dimensions, in fact, coexist and are mutually reinforcing and enriching, states the author. Thus, most confrontations do not pose a threat to the Indian polity as they are essentially asser tions of cultural identity. Arguing for lan guage-based nation formation and cultural pluralism, Prof. Oommen asserts that any attempt to shape nations on the basis of reli gion is the only real threat to the Indian pol ity and should, therefore, be discouraged. The Indian genius is one of gradual transfor mation, piecemeal accretion and cautious reconciliation. Therefore, the real task of nation-building entails nurturing pluralism in all contexts-values, technology, culture.

With its innovative conceptual analysis and bold policy formulations, this book will be invaluable for students of sociology, social anthropology, political science and public administration, as well as for policy makers, legislators and administrators.