Social movements and democracy are deeply interconnected, with each shaping and influencing the development and strength of the other. In a democratic system, citizens are granted political rights and civil liberties such as freedom of expression, association, and assembly. These rights form the foundation upon which social movements can emerge and operate. Conversely, social movements…
Category: political-philosophy
Politics of Reservation
The politics of reservation in India is a critical aspect of the country’s efforts to address historical inequalities and discrimination, particularly towards the Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). Reservation refers to the provision of certain percentage quotas for these groups in educational institutions, government jobs, and legislatures. This system…
Regionalism
Regionalism refers to the advocacy for the interests, autonomy, or independence of a specific region within a larger political framework, often as a response to perceived neglect or exploitation by the central government. In India, regionalism has taken various forms, ranging from demands for cultural preservation to the fight for political autonomy, self-rule, and equitable…
Social transformation under present Indian democracy
Since its independence in 1947, India has undergone significant social transformation, influenced by its democratic framework. The Indian democracy, enshrined in the Constitution, offers a platform for political participation, the protection of rights, and the promotion of social justice. The democratic system has played a crucial role in shaping India’s social landscape by addressing inequalities,…
Ethnic movements in North-East India
North-East India is a region known for its diverse ethnic groups, languages, cultures, and religions. The region comprises eight states—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim. Ethnic movements in North-East India have been significant in shaping the region’s political landscape. These movements have largely emerged from the desire of various ethnic groups…
The economic impact of State policies on backward classes
In India, the term “backward classes” primarily refers to those social groups that have historically been marginalized, oppressed, and economically disadvantaged. This includes Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). The Indian government has implemented various policies aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of these groups, particularly after independence. These policies,…
Impact of economic globalization on Indian society
Economic globalization refers to the increasing integration of national economies into the global economy through trade, investment, and the movement of labor and capital. In India, the process of economic globalization began in earnest in the early 1990s, when the country adopted economic reforms that liberalized the economy, opened up to foreign trade, and encouraged…
Working Class Movement in India
The Working Class Movement in India is a key chapter in the history of social movements, particularly concerning the struggles of the labor force against exploitation, poor working conditions, and social injustices. The movement has evolved over time, shaped by India’s colonial past, its post-independence economic policies, and the changing nature of industrialization. Early Beginnings…
Human Development Index
The Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite measure developed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 1990 to assess the social and economic development levels of countries. Unlike traditional economic measures such as GDP per capita, HDI focuses on a broader understanding of well-being and quality of life, combining multiple dimensions of human…
Origin of the Backward Classes Movement in India
The Backward Classes Movement in India refers to the socio-political efforts made by groups historically categorized as “backward” or “underprivileged” in Indian society, particularly those belonging to the Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). The movement has been crucial in advocating for the upliftment of these groups, seeking social, economic,…
The meaning and components of social movements
A social movement is a collective, organized, and sustained effort by a group of people to promote or resist change in society. It emerges when people come together to address grievances, inequalities, or injustices, and it often challenges the existing social, economic, or political order. Social movements operate outside established political institutions but aim to…
Gandhian and Marxian Frameworks of Studying Social Movements in India
The study of social movements in India can be approached through various theoretical frameworks. Two of the most influential and contrasting frameworks are the Gandhian and Marxian perspectives. Both offer distinct views on the causes, strategies, and objectives of social movements, yet they also intersect in some key areas, especially concerning the themes of justice,…