The colonial view of India was that it was not, and could hardly ever become, a “nation”. According to European ideas India did not possess any sort of unity, physical, social and religious.
Political nationalism is a concept of western political science to which Indian intellectuals of the last century, brought up on Western education and values were irresistibly drawn, because it opened up infinite possibilities for their country.
India has a unique and wonderful culture embracing in diversities of castes, languages and religions. It is a land of different castes, creeds etc. Inspite of these divergences there was always a general feeling oneness and Indianness.
In view of promoting national integration in November 1960, the Education Ministers of all the States met to consider this matter. The problem of National Integration was considered in all its gravity. It was then decided that a committee be constituted under the leadership of Dr. Sampurnananda for promoting national and emotional unity in the country.
National Integration is the cherished desire of peace loving people of India. The country showed its humanitarian values at the time of freedom movement adhering to non-violence-strategy to release the country from the foreign shackles.
India is a country with innumerable diversities, an entity composed of many communities, races classes, languages and subcultures. In any such nation, there are many obstacles to the achievement of national integration.
Programmes and activities of this nature include celebration of national festivals and days damages, educational tours, participation in the NCC, Scout Guides Camps, participation in debating competition and so on.
India is a multi-national and multi-lingual country, speaking many languages, professing many religions and following diverse customs. There is an understanding sense of solidarity which comes out in times of stress, against foreign aggression.
For the national integration, it is essential that people should give up communal and sectarian outlook. They should reconsider themselves as Indians first and Indians last. Emotional and psychological integration is vital to national integration.
National integration is the awareness of a common identity amongst the citizens of a country. It means that though we belong to different castes, religions and regions and speak different languages we recognize the fact that we are all one.