India has been a federal republic since 1950, governed through a democratic parliamentary system. It is a pluralistic, multilingual and multi-ethnic society

India is indeed a vast and diverse country characterized by its federal structure, with a democratic parliamentary system that emphasizes the role of its numerous languages, cultures, and ethnic groups. Since becoming a republic in 1950, India has maintained a constitution that supports a wide range of freedoms and rights for its citizens.

1. Federal Structure: India’s federal system is divided into states and union territories, each having its own government, which allows for local governance. This structure promotes autonomy and accommodates the various cultural and regional identities present within the country.

2. Parliamentary System: The Indian parliamentary system draws its roots from the British model and involves a multi-tiered legislative process. The President serves as the ceremonial head of state, while the Prime Minister, elected from the majority party in parliament, holds executive power.

3. Pluralism: India’s ethos fundamentally embraces pluralism, fostering an environment where multiple religions, languages, and ethnic identities coexist. This diversity is enshrined in the Constitution, which provides for the recognition and protection of various cultural rights.

4. Multilingualism and Multi-Ethnicity: India is home to 22 officially recognized languages and numerous dialects, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry. The Constitution promotes linguistic rights and acknowledges the importance of regional languages in education and governance.

Overall, the functioning of India as a federal republic showcases its commitment to democracy while being adaptable to its rich diversity, promoting unity in diversity as a fundamental principle of its national identity.