National Call to Overcome the Colonial Mindset

Roots of the Colonial Mindset

National Call to Overcome the Colonial Mindset: The Prime Minister’s call for a 10-year national pledge underscores the need to consciously overcome the deep colonial imprint that shaped India’s institutions and thinking. This mindset traces back to 1835, when British MP Thomas Babington Macaulay advocated replacing India’s traditional education system with English-based learning. His Minute on Education prioritised English over Sanskrit, Hindi, Arabic, and other Oriental languages.

Mahatma Gandhi famously remarked that India’s ancient education system was “a beautiful tree that was uprooted,” capturing the scale of cultural disruption. Static GK fact: Macaulay’s Minute was implemented under Governor-General Lord William Bentinck.

Impact on Language and Culture

Language became one of the strongest carriers of the colonial imprint. The dominance of English in courts, universities, and administration reinforced it as a symbol of aspiration. For many non-English-speaking citizens, this created barriers to access and inclusion.

Culturally, Western norms were projected as superior. Clothing styles, art forms, etiquette, and food habits were promoted as modern, while indigenous systems were labelled outdated. Static GK fact: English became the official language for higher administration after the 1835 resolution.

Institutions and Legal Structures

India continues to carry several laws and institutional practices rooted in colonial governance. The Indian Penal Code (IPC), Sedition laws, and colonial-era forest regulations were framed to exercise control rather than empower citizens.

Recent efforts aim to shift this legacy. Reforms to criminal laws and governance frameworks signal a shift from a colonial control mindset to a citizen-centric approach. Static GK Tip: The IPC was drafted in 1860 under Lord Macaulay.

Economic Thought and Knowledge Models

Economic policies during colonial rule focused on extractive practices and private capital expansion, leading to large-scale impoverishment. Post-independence models often continued to mirror imported frameworks, sidelining India’s indigenous economic thought and local knowledge systems.

Today, greater emphasis is being placed on Atmanirbhar Bharat, promoting local industries, innovation, and self-reliance. Indigenous knowledge-based sectors such as Ayurveda, classical textiles, traditional crafts, and agriculture models are seeing renewed recognition.

Path of Cognitive Decolonisation

Cognitive decolonisation refers to reclaiming confidence in one’s cultural, intellectual, and historical identity. Recent initiatives reflect this shift. The National Education Policy 2020 encourages mother-tongue-based learning, promotion of classical languages, and revival of traditional knowledge ecosystems.

Symbolic transformations also play a role. The renaming of Rajpath to Kartavya Path shifts the focus from colonial power display to duty and service. The placement of the Sengol in the new Parliament highlights India’s civilisational continuity and democratic ethos. Static GK fact: The Sengol symbolises the transfer of righteous authority in ancient Tamil traditions.

Cultural Revival and Behavioural Change

Promoting indigenous festivals, crafts, and practices—such as through International Yoga Day—helps build cultural pride. Behavioural shifts are equally crucial. Initiatives like Mission LiFE integrate sustainable Indian lifestyle practices into daily life.

The 10-year pledge is thus envisioned as a societal commitment to rediscover India’s roots while building a confident, future-ready nation.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

National Call to Overcome the Colonial Mindset: