The Role of Religion in Value Education: The Case of India

Abstract

According to the 2011 census of the government, approximately 79 percent of India`s population is Hindus, 14 percent is Muslims, and 4 percent adheres to Christianity and other religions. Other religions include the Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism, Zoroastrianism and others; therefore it makes it very difficult for those in position of power in India to ignore this reality. The scriptures and teachings of Hindu religion is intended to lead the students to develop a critical mind and to imbibe the basic Hindu religious tenets, hence there is a need to transmit acceptable moral standards and inculcate spiritual values in interpersonal and human relations in the society. In order to sustain a sound human society, the survival of value education becomes imperative because of the nostalgia of the past, disappointment of the present and hope for the future generation. This paper tries to examine the role of religious bodies in the state of India in providing religious education in the current democratic dispensation. The government of the day feels that in delivering value education professionalism should be kept in mind. This means that the religious educators do not present their teachings with the view of converting the pupils towards their faith but to present every religion in an objective way for the pupils to make their own decisions. This is to ensure religious tolerance in the light of the religious pluralism existing in the country today. It is for this reason that the Indian education authorities like central Board of secondary Education, University Grants Commissions, AICTE etc. have to approve the content of the syllabus of education. It is worth mentioning that religious bodies in India wield considerable power and can influence state governments in the areas of law and politics. This paper adopts a qualitative approach and with the help of secondary data extensively discusses the concept and objectives of value education and their role in inculcating values, the paper also touches on the important aspect of relationship between religious instruction and values education. The paper concludes by suggesting ways forward for a better society