Why is India often called a “state-nation”?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Since it is committed to the idea of pluralistic identities co-existing peacefully within a single state polity.
Option (1) Since the political identity developed before a national identity. — Incorrect. The term is about accommodating many identities, not which identity came first.
Option (2) Since it is committed to the idea of pluralistic identities co-existing peacefully within a single state polity. — Correct. A ‘state-nation’ is the alternative to the nation-state: various ‘nations’ — ethnic, religious, linguistic or indigenous identities — co-exist peacefully and cooperatively in a single state polity, and citizens can identify with both their country and their own community. India’s Constitution recognises such diversity, so India is a good example of a state-nation.
Option (3) Since it is developed in the model of assimilation to manage pluralism. — Incorrect. Assimilation forces all citizens to take on one set of values, usually the dominant group’s. The Indian state ruled out the assimilationist model from its very beginning.
Option (4) Since it is committed to the idea of one nation-one state. — Incorrect. ‘One nation, one state’ is the idea of the nation-state, which favours a single, homogenous national identity. The state-nation is the very alternative to it.
NCERT (2025-26): “…By international standards, very strong constitutional protection is offered to minority religions. In general, India’s problems have been more in the sphere of implementation and practice rather than laws or principles. But on the whole, India can be considered a good example of a ‘state-nation’ though it is not entirely free from the problems common to nation-states.”
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