Question

Answer the following question in detail (in 150-200 words).

Discuss how the Colonial period continues to impact us in post-Independent India.

Answer 1

1. In post-independent India, ancient culture and the British period together influence our thought patterns, behaviour patterns, goals, aspirations, and needs.
2. The British set up a system of education that had a far-reaching impact on Indian society. English became the common language of communication among the learned people. Even today, the medium of instruction in many schools and colleges is English.
3. During the colonial period, schools and colleges were open to all individuals, irrespective of caste, creed, gender, etc. The content of education was not religion-oriented. It was secular. Even today, education is deemed to be the basic right of every individual. Similarly, we still focus on secularity in the curriculum.
4. New values like rationality, equality, social justice, secular approach, and individualism which gained firmer ground during the colonial period continue to remain an important aspect of Indian society.
5. The impact of the colonial period is also witnessed in respect of food habits, dressing, customs, mannerisms, attitudes, beliefs, sports, entertainment, etc. of people in the post-independent period.
6. The British implemented new systems of administration. The administrative system in the post-independent period is based on certain elements from that in the colonial period.
7. During the colonial period, the subsistence economy was replaced by a market system that thrived on profiteering. It had a far-reaching impact on the Indian economy.
8. The systems of railways and roadways were set up through the length and breadth of the country. These transport networks contributed to the development of the country even in the post-independent period. 
9. The 19th century is witness to the emergence of many social and religious reform movements. Even today, such movements continue to gather momentum to bring about desirable social change.
10. Many laws were passed to promote social justice, achieve social welfare, ensure the protection of vulnerable and weaker sections of Indian society. Some of these laws played an important role even in post-independent India.

In short, the colonial period continues to impact us in post-independent India in a variety of ways.