The Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) is one of the most significant social movements in India, primarily focused on the environmental and social impacts of the construction of the Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada River in central India. The movement has played a crucial role in raising awareness about the rights of tribal and rural…
Category: political-philosophy
The relevance of social movements in Indian democracy
Social movements have long been a powerful force in shaping the democratic fabric of India. With its vast social, cultural, and religious diversity, India has witnessed a variety of movements, each addressing different aspects of society, ranging from political rights and economic justice to cultural recognition and gender equality. Social movements, in their various forms,…
Religious movements in India
Religious movements in India have been a significant part of the country’s socio-political landscape, influencing not only spiritual life but also the political and cultural dynamics. These movements, deeply rooted in India’s rich religious diversity, are often driven by the need for social reform, revitalization of spiritual values, and the reassertion of cultural identity. India,…
The political dimensions of ecological movements
Ecological movements are pivotal in raising awareness about environmental issues and advocating for the protection of the natural environment. These movements often intersect with political structures and social justice campaigns, as they address concerns related to sustainability, conservation, environmental degradation, and the equitable distribution of natural resources. The political dimensions of ecological movements are complex,…
Discuss the main features of the Other Backward Class (OBC) Movement in India
The Other Backward Classes (OBC) movement in India is a significant socio-political movement that has been primarily focused on affirmative action, social justice, and educational and political empowerment for the communities classified as OBCs by the Indian government. The term “OBC” refers to a broad category of communities that, though not classified as Scheduled Castes…
Farmers’ movement in India
The farmers’ movement in India is an important socio-political phenomenon that has been deeply rooted in the country’s agrarian structure. Agriculture forms the backbone of the Indian economy, employing a large proportion of the population, particularly in rural areas. Over the years, numerous farmers’ movements have emerged to address issues ranging from economic distress, land…
Regional movements in India
Regional movements in India have played an important role in shaping the country’s political, social, and cultural landscape. These movements often emerge due to regional imbalances, identity assertion, ethnic and linguistic concerns, economic grievances, or demands for greater autonomy. India, with its vast diversity in terms of language, culture, religion, and ethnicity, has witnessed a…
The role of Dalits in Indian politics
The role of Dalits (historically referred to as “Untouchables”) in Indian politics has been a critical aspect of India’s democratic framework, particularly in the context of the country’s caste system and the quest for social justice. Dalits, who have been marginalized, oppressed, and subjected to discrimination for centuries, represent a significant portion of India’s population,…
Impact of information technology and globalization on social movements
Introduction: In the contemporary era, information technology (IT) and globalization have significantly altered the landscape of social movements, providing new tools for mobilization, communication, and advocacy. These developments have expanded the reach, scale, and scope of social movements, enabling them to transcend traditional boundaries of space and time. The digital age, characterized by the proliferation…
The liberal and Marxian approaches to the study of social movements
Social movements have been studied from various theoretical perspectives, with the liberal and Marxian approaches being among the most prominent. These two frameworks provide different lenses through which social movements can be understood, shaped by their respective ideologies about society, politics, and the role of change. Liberal Approach to Social Movements: The liberal perspective on…
What is communalism? How does it work in India?
Communalism refers to the ideology and political practice that seeks to promote the interests of a particular religious or ethnic group over others, often leading to inter-group conflict and division. It can manifest in various forms, but generally, communalism emphasizes the centrality of religious or ethnic identity in political and social life. In its extreme…
What are the approaches to study ethnic movements?
Ethnic movements, often referred to as ethnic mobilizations or ethnic-based movements, are social movements that arise from the collective action of an ethnic group seeking to assert its cultural identity, rights, or autonomy within a larger political or national context. These movements are often a response to historical or contemporary marginalization, discrimination, or cultural erosion…