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Gurukul Education in Ancient India (800 BCE): Student Life, Values & Daily Routine

  Education in Ancient India – The Gurukul System Around 800 BCE Education in ancient India was not just about reading scriptures or learning discipline—it was a way of living . Around 800 BCE , the Gurukul system flourished across forests, small settlements, and hermitages, offering a rare blend of knowledge, spirituality, skills, and character-building . While modern education focuses on degrees, Gurukul focused on life , turning children into responsible, emotionally grounded, and wise adults. Let’s walk into a Gurukul and live one day as a student of 800 BCE… Living With the Guru — A Family Beyond Blood Students (called shishyas ) lived in the hermitage of their teacher, the Guru . There were no school buildings, benches, or classrooms. Instead, there were: mud huts open courtyards sacred fire altars (yajna kunda) libraries of palm-leaf manuscripts and forests filled with birds and the fragrance of sandalwood The Guru was not just a teacher—he was a p...
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Indian Democracy: Features, Elections, and Public Opinion


Introduction

India is the largest democracy in the world, with the highest number of voters. For more than six decades, it has faced political ups and downs but has survived due to the loyalty and awareness of its people. The democratic system thrives on the active role of voters who protect and preserve it.

Elections in a Democracy

Elections are the foundation of democracy. Through voting, people choose their representatives for the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Assemblies, and Local Bodies. Elections ensure participation, accountability, and people’s control over governance.

Role of the Electorate

  • India follows universal adult suffrage – every citizen above 18 years can vote.

  • Voting is both a right and a duty.

  • The principle of “one person, one vote” strengthens equality.

  • Citizens must vote without fear, greed, or bias to keep democracy alive.

Elections – The Pillar of Democracy

  • Elections allow citizens to evaluate representatives.

  • Both political parties and independent candidates contest.

  • The party or coalition with the majority forms the government.

  • From Parliament to Gram Panchayat, elections exist at every level.

  • Free and fair elections are essential for transparency and trust.

Referendum and Public Opinion

Public opinion plays a key role in democracy:

  • It prevents government misuse of power.

  • Strong, organized opinion ensures accountability.

  • Political parties and opposition rely on public support to gain power.

Means of Forming Public Opinion

1. Printed Media

Newspapers and magazines spread awareness, but press freedom is crucial to avoid biased reporting.

2. Electronic Media

Radio, television, cinema, and the internet strongly influence people. Opinion polls and surveys give insight into public thinking, though they may not always be reliable.

Types of Democracy

  • Parliamentary Democracy (India): The Prime Minister leads, and the government is responsible to the Lok Sabha.

  • Presidential Democracy (USA): The President is the head of government with independent powers.

Electoral System in India

  • The Election Commission of India (ECI) conducts and regulates elections.

  • The Commission is independent and autonomous to ensure fair elections.

  • Elections include general elections, by-elections, and presidential elections.

  • Voting is by secret ballot to maintain confidentiality and fairness.

Conclusion

Indian democracy stands strong due to its electoral process, universal suffrage, and active citizen participation. A vigilant electorate and transparent elections ensure that power remains truly in the hands of the people.

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