PrintFriendly
ON THE JAYANTI OF PT. Deen Dayal Upadhyay (25TH SEPTEMBER)
A Catalyst for Holistic Development of Society
India’s ancient philosophy champions a holistic approach to development that nurtures the body, mind, intellect, soul, and Supreme Soul, standing in stark contrast to many Western ideologies that prioritize material success. Deen Dayal Ji vividly illustrated this principle by likening societal development to proper nourishment…
India’s ancient philosophy champions a holistic approach to development that nurtures the body, mind, intellect, soul, and Supreme Soul, standing in stark contrast to many Western ideologies that prioritize material success. Deen Dayal Ji vividly illustrated this principle by likening societal development to proper nourishment, underscoring the interconnectedness of all aspects of life—an insight that modern science now validates. Integral Humanism, firmly anchored in core values such as unity, cultural integrity, and holistic well-being, continues to steer India toward inclusive and sustainable development. This philosophy prioritizes the protection and welfare of individuals and communities, acting as a guiding force to bridge socio-economic divides in a culturally diverse nation. By fostering a socio-economic framework rooted in Indigenous values, Integral Humanism elevates human dignity and collective welfare to paramount importance.
Deen Dayal Ji conceptualized society as a living organism, akin to a tree thriving in fertile soil. He believed that the growth and vitality of society depend on a nurturing
Deen Dayal Ji conceptualized society as a living organism, akin to a tree thriving in fertile soil. He believed that the growth and vitality of society depend on a nurturing connection with the land and its people
connection with the land and its people. This relationship emphasizes harmony between human beings and their environment, suggesting that true development arises not just from economic growth but from the well-being of all societal layers, sustained by connections to nature, culture, and community.
On June 5, 1964, Deen Dayal Ji delivered a transformative discourse titled “Individual and Society,” articulating a profound understanding of the relationship between the individual and the collective. He stressed that both individuals and societies consist of essential elements: body, mind, intellect, and soul. This holistic perspective highlights the importance of recognizing the multi-faceted nature of human existence and its interaction with the broader social framework.
In his exploration of society, Deen Dayal Ji argued that a thriving community is built upon interconnected components, including the people themselves (jana), collective will or intent (sankalpa), governing systems (often referred to as constitution or Dharma), and prevailing culture. He posited that these elements work together synergistically to create a vibrant and sustainable society.
Moreover, his vision extended beyond theoretical frameworks; he aspired to create a society where even the most impoverished individuals are not relegated to passive recipients of charity. Instead, he advocated for structured initiatives such as Antyodaya, designed to economically empower marginalized communities. By promoting self-reliance and providing access to resources and opportunities, these initiatives aim to uplift the underprivileged, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to society and break the cycle of poverty.
Deen Dayal Ji’s approach emphasizes building a society that values dignity, empowerment, and sustainable development. Integral Humanism identifies key societal needs for holistic development, such as newborn care, adequate shelter, health protection, and education and skill development for livelihoods.
Deen Dayal Ji emphasized that society has a vital responsibility to care for its members, reflecting the principle of societal responsibility central to Integral Humanism. These principles remain relevant today, guiding India toward inclusive growth while addressing the diverse needs of all citizens.
Deen Dayal Ji also examined ideologies like Capitalism and Communism, viewing them as products of limited perspectives shaped by conflict. He emphasized that clashes among differing ideologies worldwide should be understood in the context of India’s integrated cultural heritage, which fosters understanding and unity among diverse viewpoints.
In economic terms, Deen Dayal Ji emphasized recognizing the abundance of resources rather than scarcity, asserting that financial influence should not overshadow human relationships. He advocated for moderate approaches to punishment in an ideal society characterized by integration, reflecting his vision of a compassionate and interconnected community.
On April 25, 1965, inspired by Ekatma Manavvaad Darshan’s ‘Yuganukul Artha-Rachna’, he proposed an economic framework prioritizing sustainable and humane resource utilization. He identified various forms of economic ownership—private
Deen Dayal Ji emphasized that society has a vital responsibility to care for its members, reflecting the principle of societal responsibility central to Integral Humanism. These principles remain relevant today, guiding India toward inclusive growth…
enterprises, public companies, cooperatives, and small businesses—highlighting their potential contributions to societal welfare.
Capitalism focuses on management and money, while Communism emphasizes labor. Deen Dayal Ji introduced the “7 M’s” essential for successful industries: Men, Material, Motor Power, Machine, Marketing, Money, and Management. Integral Humanism integrates these elements to ensure that everyone’s basic needs are met, promoting both personal and societal growth.
He poignantly compared the suffering of unemployment to the deep sorrow experienced by a childless wife of a wealthy man, highlighting the importance of meaningful work for individuals of all ages.
Deen Dayal Ji outlined six economic principles under Integral Humanism, focusing on:
Minimum Requirements and Assurance: Ensuring every individual’s basic needs are met.
Prosperity Beyond Minimums: Enhancing individual and national prosperity through collective efforts.
Volunteering: Encouraging senior professionals to retire voluntarily and engage in societal contributions.
Favorable Technology for Producers: Facilitating technology that benefits producers through practical applications.
Cultural Protection: Preserving the state’s cultural life and values.
Coordination of Enterprise Ownership: Harmonizing different types of enterprise ownership through government and societal collaboration.
In alignment with Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya’s vision, the Narendra Modi-led government has embraced the path of Antyodaya, encapsulated in the idea of ‘Sab ka Saath, Sab ka Vikas’ (Together with all, Development for all). This approach signifies a commitment to inclusive growth, ensuring that no one is left behind in the nation’s development journey.
Initiatives such as Skill India and Make in India are not just focused on economic advancement; they empower individuals by enhancing their skills and promoting entrepreneurship. Skill India equips the workforce with the necessary abilities to thrive in a rapidly changing job market, fostering a culture of innovation and self-reliance. Meanwhile, Make in India encourages local manufacturing and invites global businesses to invest, creating jobs and boosting economic activity across the nation.
Together, these initiatives reflect India’s determination to harness its vast potential in the 21st century. By prioritizing skill development and entrepreneurship, the government is paving the way for a brighter future, where every citizen can contribute to and benefit from the nation’s progress. This holistic approach not only promotes economic growth but also strengthens the fabric of society, fostering unity and shared purpose as India emerges as a key player on the global stage.
The government has launched numerous schemes named after Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya, resonating with his vision for uplifting the marginalized. Programs such as:
–Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Unnat Krishi Shiksha Yojana (PDDUUKSY)
–Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY)
–Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay National Welfare Fund for Sportspersons (PDUNWFS)
These initiatives are strategically designed to enhance the development of villages and uplift the welfare of the poor, farmers, and marginalized communities, with a particular focus on empowering youth and women. By prioritizing these groups, the government aims to create a more equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Programs such as MUDRA, Jan Dhan, Ujjwala, and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan play a pivotal role in improving living conditions across the country. MUDRA facilitates access to financial support for small businesses, fostering entrepreneurship and economic independence among aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women. The Jan Dhan Yojana has revolutionized financial inclusion, providing millions with access to banking services and promoting savings, significantly enhancing their economic stability.
Ujjwala has transformed lives by ensuring families have access to clean cooking fuel, reducing health risks associated with traditional cooking methods. Meanwhile, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has made remarkable strides in promoting hygiene and sanitation, leading to cleaner living environments and better public health outcomes.
In 2024, these initiatives have significantly improved the ease of living in India, making daily life more comfortable and secure. With enhanced access to affordable housing and essential medical treatment, citizens can lead healthier, more productive lives. The collective impact of these programs not only enhances individual well-being but also fosters a sense of community and belonging, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for all.
As India forges ahead under Prime Minister Modi’s visionary leadership, the focus on empowering its citizens guarantees that everyone can share in the nation’s growth narrative. His relentless efforts to create a better India reinforce the conviction that a brighter, more prosperous life is within reach for all. Through initiatives that uplift marginalized communities and promote inclusive development, PM Modi is laying the groundwork for a future where every citizen can thrive.
As India advances toward comprehensive development, Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Ji’s philosophy of Integral Humanism remains central to fostering inclusive growth. This approach transcends mere economic progress, aiming to uplift every sector of society while respecting cultural values, with Antyodaya ensuring that marginalized communities are not left behind.
As we mark 100 days of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term, the principles of Integral Humanism can shape policies prioritizing human welfare over mere economic metrics. By focusing on Antyodaya, we align with India’s goals of uplifting the underprivileged.
Integrating these ideals into policymaking is vital for sustainable development and will guide us toward a more equitable society. Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to these values not only honours Deen Dayal Ji’s legacy but also lays a strong foundation for a prosperous and united India, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
(The Writer is Former Minister of State for Education, Govt. of India)