Indian Ethos, Business

Ethics

Topic: Politics
Group No: 5 (MARS)

Team Members:
Philippa D’mello – MBA Finance (031005)
Radha Shinde – MBA Marketing (035007)
Shrushti Todankar – MBA Finance (031018)
Sadhana Gupta- MBA Finance (031009)
Priti Yadav- MBA Finance (031019)

INTRODUCTION
 India's political landscape is a dynamic and multifaceted domain, intricately
interwoven with the nation's rich cultural, historical, and philosophical traditions.
India's uniqueness as a political setting stems from its extensive history, linguistic
diversity, religious pluralism, and socio-economic disparities. The profound
connection between politics and Indian ethos is a captivating tapestry that we will
explore in detail. The roots of India's political development lie in its ancient heritage.
Early Indian political thought is evident in texts such as the Arthashastra, Manusmriti,
and the epic Ramayana, all emphasizing the pivotal role of Dharma, or duty and
righteousness, in governance. These historical foundations continue to influence
modern Indian political theory and practice. Cultural pluralism is a hallmark of Indian
society, and this diversity is vividly reflected in its politics. Often referred to as a
"unity in diversity," India's unique form of secularism honors and embraces a wide
range of religious beliefs. These principles are enshrined in the Indian Constitution,
which underscores the significance of pluralism by guaranteeing equal protection and
religious freedom for all citizens.

An essential turning point in India's political history was the country's transition from
British colonial rule to a democratic republic in 1947. The liberal democratic
principles embedded in the Indian Constitution uphold the values of justice, equality,
and liberty. The Indian political system is deeply rooted in democratic principles,
emphasizing accountability, representation, and participation. Another notable aspect
of Indian politics is its dedication to social justice. Affirmative action policies,
including reservations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward
Classes (OBCs) in public employment and education, aim to rectify historical
injustices and promote inclusivity. This commitment to social justice profoundly
shapes the nation's political discourse and policies. The influence of Mahatma Gandhi
on Indian politics is profound, with his principles of civil disobedience and
nonviolence leaving an enduring impact. Gandhi's beliefs in simplicity, truth, and
nonviolence continue to inspire political movements, activism, and the pursuit of
justice in India. The multi-party system in Indian politics is a testament to the
country's ability to accommodate a diverse array of political parties, each representing
varying ideologies and interests. This diversity reflects the complexity of Indian
society and reinforces the nation's unwavering commitment to pluralism. Indian
politics harmonizes historical, cultural, and philosophical dimensions with a resolute
commitment to democracy, social justice, and secularism. The prevalence of
regionalism, a unique non-aligned foreign policy, and economic policies that combine
elements of socialism and capitalism illustrate India's adaptability to the evolving
dynamics of the global stage. The interplay of these historical and cultural elements
with modern political principles underscores the intricate relationship between politics
and the Indian ethos, shaping the nation's political landscape.
 QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEY
In our survey, we received a total of 26 responses. These responses were collected by
using various questionnaires that were specifically related to our chosen topic. We
have organized the data gathered from our respondents in the format provided below.
From our survey, the following key findings have emerged:

 The majority of respondents express agreement with the principles of truth and non-
violence as advocated by Mahatma Gandhi in today's political landscape.

 Respondents consider open and honest thinking in political decision-making in India

to be of moderate importance.

 There's a belief that caste and religion should have some influence in Indian politics,
to a certain extent.
 Widespread perception exists regarding the prevalence of corruption in Indian
politics.

 Respondents strongly support increased efforts to enhance the representation of

women and minority groups in Indian politics.

 The survey suggests that both individual rights and the collective good hold
significant importance in politics.

 Respondents generally rate the level of respect and tolerance in Indian politics as
somewhat high.

 There's a consensus that politicians should bear ethical responsibilities towards their
constituents and the country.

 Many respondents believe that regulations are necessary to govern the relationship
between politics and business interests.

 Respondents express the need for increased voter education to ensure fair and
unbiased elections in India.

 The survey indicates a shared belief in the promotion of ethical political behaviour in
India through education and awareness.

 A moderate focus on environmental and sustainability issues in Indian politics, in

alignment with ethical principles, is recommended.
Interview of Politician

Name: Nisha Ravendra Phatak

Designation: BJP Palghar District zilla Parishad Member (also Human Rights member)
1. What inspired you to become a politician, and what motivated you to serve the
public?
 She was inspired to become a politician by a deep-seated passion for making a
positive impact on our community. Also she mentioned she was a social service
worker and through that she got motivated a desire to serve the public, she also
believe in the power of policy and governance to address critical issues and improve
people's lives.

2. What do you believe are the most pressing challenges facing our community/country
today, and what solutions do you propose for them?
 The most pressing challenges facing our community today include economic
disparities and climate change. She mentioned that I propose implementing
sustainable development initiatives and job-creating projects to tackle these issues
head-on.

3. What is your position on environmental issues, such as climate change, and what
policies are you advocating to address them?
 She prioritize environmental issues, acknowledging the urgency of climate change.
She also advocate for stricter emissions regulations, increased investments in
renewable energy, and public awareness campaigns to combat climate change.

4. How will you work to promote job creation and economic growth in our area?
 To promote job creation and economic growth, I support incentivizing small business
development, investing in infrastructure projects, and fostering partnerships with local
industries to boost employment opportunities.

5. What steps will you take to address the concerns of different interest groups and
balance conflicting priorities in your decision-making?
 Addressing the concerns of different interest groups involves open dialogue and
collaboration. She will establish advisory boards to gather input, analyze data, and
strive to make informed decisions that balance the needs of all stakeholders in our
community.
 6. What is your stance on healthcare policy, and how do you plan to improve access to
quality healthcare for all citizens?
 Her stance on healthcare policy centers on the belief that quality healthcare is a
fundamental right for all citizens. To improve access, she said she has propose a
comprehensive approach. They have establish monthly free health checkup clinics in
underserved areas, ensuring preventive care is accessible to all. Additionally, they
have implement policies to provide free essential medicines, reducing the financial
burden on patients. Strengthening public healthcare infrastructure, expanding
insurance coverage, and fostering partnerships with healthcare providers will be our
key strategies to ensure quality healthcare is within reach for every citizen.

Name: Vijata Surve Dudwakar

Designation: BJP Zilla Parishad OBC Mahila Member
1. How does your party plan to address the specific challenges and needs of OBC
women in our society, and what policies do you advocate to empower them?
 Our party is committed to addressing the unique challenges faced by OBC women.
We advocate for policies that provide equitable access to education, employment, and
healthcare. This includes special scholarships, vocational training, and healthcare
facilities targeted at OBC women to ensure their holistic development.

2. Can you share your party's stance on gender equality within the OBC community, and
what initiatives are in place to promote women's rights and participation?
 Gender equality is a fundamental principle in our party's vision. We promote women's
rights and participation through affirmative action measures, such as reserved seats
for OBC women in local governance bodies and educational institutions. We also
actively engage OBC women in leadership roles within the party.
 3. What steps does your party plan to take to improve the healthcare and education
facilities for OBC women, especially in marginalized areas? Can you share examples
of successful initiatives or projects that your party has undertaken to uplift OBC
women and promote their well-being?
 Our party recognizes the importance of accessible healthcare and quality education
for OBC women, especially in marginalized areas. We plan to establish healthcare
clinics and educational centers tailored to their needs, ensuring that they receive the
same opportunities as others. We have undertaken successful projects to uplift OBC
women, such as skill development programs, microfinance initiatives, and self-help
groups. These projects have empowered OBC women economically and socially.

Nand Kishor Pawar of Personal Background and Motivations in Nationalist Congress Party
Q 1 .What inspired you to get involved in politics?
 I appreciate your interest in my journey into politics. My decision to get involved in
politics was shaped by a combination of personal experiences and a deep-rooted
belief in the power of public service.
 Growing up, I witnessed the impact that government policies and decisions could
have on individuals and communities. Whether it was issues related to education,
healthcare, or economic opportunities,
 I recognized the crucial role that effective governance played in shaping people's
lives.
 I was particularly inspired by leaders who demonstrated a genuine commitment to
addressing societal challenges and working towards the betterment of all citizens.
Their dedication to public service ignited a passion in me to contribute to the well-
being of my community and beyond.
 The democratic process, with its principles of representation and civic engagement,
further motivated me to be an active participant rather than a passive observer. I
believe that positive change is best achieved when individuals actively contribute to
the decision-making processes that impact their lives.
Q.2 What values or principles motivated you to join of NCP party?
 Joining NCP (Nationalist Congress Party) provided me with a platform that resonated
with my values and vision for a just and equitable society.
  The NCP party's commitment to Education Access aligns closely with my own
convictions, and I am dedicated to working collaboratively to bring about positive
change.

Q .3 How does your party engage with the public, and how is public feedback incorporated
into the decision-making process?
Collaboration with Community Leaders:
 We work closely with community leaders and influencers who serve as intermediaries
between the public and the party.
 This collaboration helps us stay informed about local issues and ensures that our
policies are relevant and responsive to the specific needs of different communities.

Q .4 what are the major challenges and opportunities facing your party in the coming years?
I. challenges
 Technological Integration: Embracing and effectively utilizing emerging technologies
for communication, campaigning, and governance is essential. Ensuring a seamless
transition into the digital age is a challenge that requires continuous adaptation.
 Economic Challenges: Addressing economic concerns, including unemployment,
inflation, and economic disparities, is pivotal. Crafting policies that resonate with
citizens' economic aspirations is an ongoing challenge.
II. Opportunities
 Sustainable Development: The emphasis on sustainable development aligns
with the global discourse. Positioning the party as a champion of
environmentally conscious policies can resonate with an increasingly
environmentally aware electorate
ETHICAL ISSUES IN POLITICS
Ethical dilemmas in politics are widespread and complex, encompassing various
issues that impact the operation of democratic nations. In this discussion, We have
emphasized several critical ethical concerns in politics, all of which carry extensive
implications for the integrity of the political system and the welfare of the populace.
 Corruption: Corruption stands out as one of the most urgent ethical challenges
in politics. It encompasses deceit, graft, misappropriation, and the exploitation
of public positions for personal benefit. Corruption diminishes the confidence
of the public in the government and weakens the fundamental tenets of
transparency and responsibility crucial for a functional democracy.
 Campaign Finance: The role of money in politics is a vital ethical concern. It
enables affluent individuals, companies, and special interest organizations to
wield unequal sway over political choices, potentially resulting in policies that
predominantly cater to their concerns. This can erode the core principle of
equitable representation for all citizens.
 Misinformation and Disinformation: At times, politicians and their backers
resort to disseminating inaccurate information or employing misleading
strategies to sway public sentiment and secure electoral victories. This hampers
the public's capacity to make well-informed choices and undermines the
democratic process.
 Lack of Accountability: The absence of responsibility among politicians and
public servants represents a notable ethical concern. On occasion, political
allegiances or the ineffectiveness of oversight mechanisms can protect
politicians from the repercussions of unethical conduct.
 Lack of Transparency: Transparency plays a crucial role in ensuring the
accountability of politicians and government officials. When decision-making
procedures lack transparency, it creates a fertile ground for unethical conduct,
eroding the confidence of the public in the government.
 Polarization and Divisiveness: Excessive partisanship and polarizing
language can impede productive political conversations and the process of
making decisions. This not only makes it difficult to tackle important issues but
also fosters a mentality of "us against them" that hampers the overarching
objectives of governance.
 Voter Suppression: Rules that make it harder for people to vote, like changing
voting boundaries or requiring specific IDs, create ethical problems. These
rules can stop certain groups from voting and go against the idea that everyone
should have an equal say in elections.
 SOLUTIONS TO ETHICAL ISSUES IN POLITICS
To safeguard democratic values and maintain public trust, it's crucial to deal with ethical
problems in politics. Here are comprehensive strategies to address these issues:
Corruption:
- Implement strong measures against corruption, like clear rules for funding political
campaigns, thorough financial transparency rules, and effective safeguards for those who
report corruption.
- Create independent agencies to fight corruption, giving them the power to investigate and
punish corrupt behavior.
- Encourage a government culture that values ethics and honesty by providing continuous
training and awareness programs.
Campaign Finance:
- Put restrictions on contributions to stop rich individuals and companies from having too
much control in elections.
- Consider and use public funding for political campaigns to lessen the need for private
donations and create a fair competition.
- Guarantee openness in campaign funding by requiring timely disclosure of all donations and
expenses.
Misinformation and Disinformation:
- Promote public education in media literacy and critical thinking to help people distinguish
trustworthy information from false content.
- Urge fact-checking groups to make politicians responsible for untrue statements.
- Create and uphold ethical standards for political communication and campaigns to
discourage the dissemination of false information.
Lack of Accountability:
- Enhance the autonomy of organizations tasked with examining and ensuring that politicians
and public figures are responsible for their actions.
- Foster a sense of political responsibility where political party membership doesn't protect
politicians from their misdeeds.
- Establish straightforward and efficient processes for the removal or recall of elected
officials when there is severe misconduct.
Lack of Transparency:
- Implement regulations that require public figures to reveal their financial interests and
possible conflicts of interest.
- Ensure that government information, such as budgets and legislative data, is easily available
to the public.
- Promote transparent decision-making processes and hold public hearings on significant
matters to maintain openness and accountability.
Polarization and Divisiveness:
- Foster respectful discussions and collaboration between political parties.
- Urge politicians to concentrate on matters instead of resorting to personal insults.
- Establish a setting where the ability to compromise is seen as a virtue, not a drawback.
Voter Suppression:
- Revise the electoral systems to guarantee equitable representation, tackle district
manipulation, and safeguard the voting privileges of all eligible individuals.
- Put in place measures that make voting easier, rather than more challenging, like extending
early voting periods and ensuring convenient polling places.

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

In summary, Indian politics are deeply woven into the nation's rich and varied
culture, creating a political environment that is a rich tapestry of philosophical,
cultural, and historical influences. There are several key principles that
characterise this complex relationship between politics and the Indian ethos, such
as a strong dedication to democracy, social justice, secularism, and a dynamic
pluralistic society. The combination of these factors gives Indian politics their
distinct personality, which makes it interesting and complex.
To conclude, the political landscape of India provides a convincing illustration of
how a country's philosophical and cultural legacy can significantly impact its
political landscape. The principles of justice, secularism, and inclusivity remain
relevant and serve as a compass for India's democratic progress. Understanding the
nuances of India's political landscape and its steadfast commitment to preserving
the fundamentals of democratic governance requires an appreciation of the close
relationship between Indian politics and its ethos. In addition to being a source of
strength, this complex relationship demonstrates India's dedication to upholding
democratic values in the face of a variety of opportunities and challenges.