(...Contd)

Much of the conflicts that we see today in our economic order can be ascribed to the lack of respect to the moral and ethical values which were the prime guiding forces in the past. Religion has become the personal concern of the individual and with it, the moral and ethical values as well. An individual may observe them, if his conscience so dictates but as far as the external world is concerned, obedience to the letter of the law and regulations of the State is all that matters. Rights, privileges and concessions that one can extract from another through coercion or pressure, irrespective of the justness or otherwise, irrespective of the repercussions on society or the nation, have now become the primary motivation of all actions.
The national cause is impaired. Society demoralizes. Conflict widens. There is no compulsive force, motive or superior loyalty which could have an ennobling influence. Ethical and moral values, the sense of Dharma, has no locus standi in the modern impersonal, institutionalized, secular setup.Unless ethical and spiritual values once again form the basis of the national milieu, these conflicts in society are bound to persist.

Influence of Gandhiji
Mahatma Gandhi strove to resolve these conflicts in different fields. He had unshakable faith in the fundamental values of our ancient heritage. He believed that mankind could progress towards its great destiny only through truth and nonviolence. An earnest search for truth in daily life and its establishment through love, through service, self sacrifice and suffering were the guiding stars of his most remarkable, eventful and active life.
He spiritualised politics, economics, social relationship and all fields of national and international activity. He sought concord in place of conflict. He extolled love, amity and understanding in place of hatred, enmity and distrust.
He believed in human dignity. He believed in encouraging individual initiative. He believed in providing equality of opportunities for all so that each may develop and progress to the utmost of his capacity. He did not believe in destroying established institutions but, on the contrary, he believed in remodeling and adapting them to subserve national interests and the common good.

(Contd...)