Unity in diversity is what India represents, but cultural diversity is not only present in India but is being witnessed all over the world. Cultural diversity is a fact of modern life and it exists now in practically all countries of the world. In addition to conventional elements such as race, religion and language, cultural diversity is accentuated by new factors including globalization, the breakdown of the traditional moral consensus, the emphasis on individual choice regarding issues like the place of religion in public life, family discipline, relations between parents and children, career and other aspects of life today. Cultural diversity is not only responsible for making a place appealable for many reasons but also is at the root of most conflicts, tensions and uncertainties in the contemporary world.

Some have attributed the present international insecurity to the Clash of Civilizations whilst others advocate dialogue of religions and cultures to prevent such conflicts and bitterness. A common assumption inspires both covenants. A multicultural society needs to find ways and means to accommodate diversity without losing its cohesiveness and unity. Two approaches are rejected. Assimilation which requires minorities to abandon their own distinctive institutions, cultures and values to merge into the prevailing culture is to be avoided.

This way is sociologically unlikely to succeed and is morally untenable in view of people’s deep adherence to normative values such as religion. Similarly, unbounded multiculturalism which entails giving up the concept of shared values and identity in order to privilege ethnic and religious differences presuming that a nation can be replaced by a number of diverse minorities is unacceptable. Such a course of action usually results in undemocratic backlash, support for extremist par¬ties, populist leaders and anti-minority policies. It is morally unjustified as it does not accept the values and institutions upheld by society at large. Regions that break away from democratic societies hoping to achieve a larger measure of self-government are not likely to enhance self-government and may rather weaken it.

Cultural pluralism values diversity and implements policies of inclusion that cater to the requirements of all groups. The sensitivities of the minorities as well as of the majority need attention. Fundamental rights and fundamental freedoms of all are to be protected. The rights of the weaker sections are particularly important in a society that respects cultural pluralism.
Intercultural dialogue is necessary both at the national and at the global levels so that contentious issues are resolved amicably. The more a nation harmonizes differences at home the greater is its ability to contribute to dialogue at the international level.

Education has a crucial role to play in providing ethical and spiritual value systems that facilitate understanding of other cultures and civilizations. Education ought to promote tolerance, respect for diversity and friendship among peoples and nations. Educational institutions must be provided with a learning environment which contributes to tolerance, understanding and respect for diversity.  India succeeds well at managing diversity. Unity in diversity is possible through respect for choice in an atmosphere of mutual trust.