What may seem to be an easy question on the face of it, is perplexing when asked in an exam where your personality is reflected in what you write or speak. An important concern of many aspirants is that they frequently have the task of formulating thoughts on issues that are not necessarily alien to them but demand a careful, balanced approach when it appears in India’s most difficult exam — UPSC. Having a dilemma if their thoughts are aimed in the right direction as desired by UPSC, they tend to doubt the choice of their essay — Is this a trick question? Should I attempt such a question even if it seems like a fun topic? One such topic was asked by UPSC in 2009 in its Essay paper of civil services exam — Are we a ‘soft’ state?
The question becomes relevant with reference to security issues, international relations, diplomacy etc. With the interview/personality test approaching, such questions are a must to be prepared. In UPSC Essentials’ special series ‘UPSC Essays Simplified’, we take you through some of the sample essays written by our expert Pranay Aggarwal covering questions of past years.
Are we a ‘soft’ state?
— Pranay Aggarwal
Can a civilizational state which has withstood millennia of invasions and colonization be ‘soft’? Can a nation whose very essence is the coexistence of chaos and order, diversity and unity, be regarded as weak? At the very outset, one is compelled to categorically reject the characterization of India as a soft state. ‘Soft state’ – the term itself reeks of colonial condescension, an attempt to pigeonhole India into western definitions of strength and order. India defies such simplistic labels, turning what may seem like fragility into an unshakable force of cultural, political, and moral authority. To truly understand India is to grasp the paradox that its supposed softness is the very foundation of its enduring strength.
The term ‘soft state’ is used to describe nations struggling to assert authority, but to use it for India is a profound misapplication. Far from being soft, India exemplifies the strength and adaptability required for a modern state. In fact, India’s resilience as a nation-state is unparalleled. Emerging from the shadows of colonial exploitation, India adopted a democratic framework that has withstood numerous challenges – from wars and insurgencies to the pandemic and global economic crises. The flourishing of our democracy in the face of such adversity highlights the robustness of our political institutions. The Indian state has successfully safeguarded its sovereignty, and also integrated diverse cultures and social groups into a cohesive national identity. Its ability to conduct the world’s largest free and fair elections, maintain rule of law across a billion-plus people, and sustain one of the fastest-growing economies in the world underscore its strengths.
The Indian civilizational state, in fact, predates many modern European nations which characterize us as ‘soft’. Bharat has endured over millennia, when other ancient civilizations have perished. Bharat’s civilizational continuity is a testament to its inherent strength and vitality, discrediting any notion of it being a soft state. Such historical continuity is unparalleled – India is not merely a modern state but the inheritor of a civilization that has demonstrated extraordinary hardiness. As Iqbal rightly observed “Yunan, Misra, Roma, sab mit gaye jahaan se, Ab tak magar hai baki naam-o-nishan hamara!” Its ability to preserve its cultural and social fabric while evolving politically underscores the indomitable strength of the Indian state.
The very idea of a soft state reeks of a colonial hangover and a west-centric worldview. Much like other reductive labels such as ‘third world’ or ‘failed state’, the soft state label reflects an outdated and patronizing perspective that measures non-western nations against arbitrary standards of strength and governance set by the West. Such epithets fail to appreciate the unique contexts and histories of countries like India. The label disregards India’s ability to safeguard its territorial integrity, navigate developmental challenges, and contribute meaningfully to the global order. It also reveals the double standards inherent in these judgments, as many so-called ‘strong states’ rely on centralization, corporatism, militarism, and clampdowns of free speech, often to the detriment of their own people.
For the land of Gandhi and Buddha, what may be perceived as softness is strength – rooted in the ideals of non-violence, compassion, and dialogue. What appears soft to the outsider is, in fact, the hard-earned wisdom of a civilization that has outlived empires. This ethos has shaped India’s approach to governance and diplomacy, emphasizing consensus over coercion and inclusion over exclusion. Far from being a weakness, this ‘softness’ reflects resilience – the ability to absorb differences and weather adversities. It is this character that has enabled India to integrate diverse communities, uphold democratic values, and maintain internal harmony despite challenges. Outwardly, too, the philosophy of non-aggression towards other nations does not make India weak. Instead, it enables sustained growth and fosters enduring relationships.
While rejecting the label of soft state for India, one can argue that the Indian state does wield soft power. India’s soft power emanates from its cultural, spiritual, and intellectual traditions. Yoga, Ayurveda, Bollywood, and Indian cuisine have found global audiences. The principles of Satya and Ahimsa championed by Mahatma Gandhi continue to inspire movements worldwide, while India’s democratic success serves as a model for other nations. Initiatives like the International Solar Alliance, Vaccine Maitri during Covid, and our leadership role in climate change negotiations demonstrate India’s commitment to global welfare.
Equally, while India is far from being a soft state, we must not harbor illusions of grandeur. We must acknowledge the challenges in our developmental journey. There are stark economic inequalities, regional disparities and barriers to social mobility. The bureaucracy, while robust in structure, does grapple with inefficiency and corruption. Inadequate social and physical infrastructure impedes economic growth. Rising communal tensions and caste polarization pose challenges to social harmony. Yet, these are not marks of a soft state; but symptoms of a developing nation navigating its path amid immense diversity, complexity, and a rapidly changing environment. Recognizing these challenges enables India to address them with resolve. These challenges, though formidable, are not insurmountable.
These challenges can be overcome with collective effort, with the state playing a pivotal role in addressing them. Through innovative policies, robust implementation, and people’s participation, these obstacles can be systematically addressed. Strengthening institutions, reducing bureaucratic laxity, and leveraging technology can ensure effective delivery of services. The state can work to bridge regional disparities by focusing on equitable development and empowering local governments. Collaborative partnerships with the private sector, civil society, and international organizations can amplify efforts in areas of education, healthcare, and skill development.
Moreover, challenges in governance are not unique to India. After all, which country doesn’t face any? Even developed countries face systemic issues. The USA grapples with deep racial inequalities, homelessness crisis, and frequent mass shootings. France and Germany contend with the integration of migrants, rising right-wing extremism, and labor strikes. Japan is grappling with an economic slowdown and an aging population. The United Kingdom struggles with political instability and regional discontent in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Should these states then be labeled as soft? It would be equally absurd to apply the term to India, whose governance challenges are compounded by its size and diversity.
In conclusion, India has always defied such imposed categories. From the ashes of colonialism, we have built a democratic polity and pluralistic society that, while imperfect, has persisted and evolved into a shining example for the rest of the world. The Indian state’s seeming softness is not a flaw but a feature. It is a reflection of our commitment to pluralism, negotiation, and inclusive growth. It is not the absence of power but the presence of patience, tolerance, and deliberation that defines India. The Indian state, far from being soft, reflects a quiet confidence that springs from a self-assured sense of national character, a respect for diversity and debate, and an inclusive approach to governance.
Expert Tip:
About our Expert: Pranay Aggarwal is an educator and mentor for aspirants preparing for UPSC Civil Services exam. With more than 10 years of experience guiding civil service aspirants, he is acknowledged as an expert on civil service exam preparation, especially on subjects like Social Issues and Sociology. He is the India representative on the Research Committee on Education, Religion and Political Sociology for UNESCO’s International Sociological Association and a committee member of Indian Sociological Society and its committee on social movements. He is also the Convenor of Indian Civil Services Association, a think tank of senior bureaucrats.
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