Jainism: Vardhamana Mahavira preached Jainism in the 6th century B.C. According to the Jains, he was the twenty- fourth tirthankara and the last. Jainism lays great emphasis on ahimsa. It believes that every object has a soul and this is not to be injured. It also believes in the doctrine of rebirth and that salvation or Moksha can be attained through following Mahavira's teachings and through three-fold paths of Right Belief, Right Knowledge and Right Conduct. 

The five rules of good conduct were: 

(1) Do not destroy life 

(2) Do not tell lies 

(3) Do not steal 

(4) Do not possess property 

(5) Be chaste.

The Jains have two important sects that are Swetambaras and Digambaras. The former's dress in white clothes whereas the latter wear no clothes.

Most of the literature of Jainism is in Prakrit. There are several works of Jainism. Most important of these are twelve Angas. Each Anga has one Upanga. These works were compiled by Swetambaras.

A large number of Jains live in India. The message of love and kindness to all preached by Jainism is very valuable.

Buddhism: The founder of Buddhism was Gautam Buddha. He lived almost at the same time as Mahavira lived. Buddha was pained to see the sufferings and misery of the people. He believed that the cause of these sufferings is desire. He said that if desire was removed, suffering would end. The person would get nirvana or freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth.