Regionalism in India often appears as a consequence of the rising cultural assertiveness within various states and territories. The diverse cultural landscape of India, marked by distinct languages, traditions, and customs, has fostered a sense of pride and identity among different regions. As cultural assertiveness grows, so does the desire for autonomy and recognition of unique regional characteristics. This phenomenon manifests itself in demands for linguistic rights, preservation of cultural heritage, and even calls for greater political autonomy. The intricate tapestry of India’s cultural mosaic contributes to a complex interplay between national identity and regional aspirations. While regionalism can foster a rich tapestry of diversity, it also poses challenges to national unity, requiring a delicate balance to ensure that cultural assertiveness does not undermine the overarching fabric of the Indian nation.
UPSC Mains General Studies Paper – 1 Mains 2020
Regionalism & Secularism
UPSC Mains Civil Services IAS Exam Question Paper – 2020
Structure of the Question
- In Introduction,
- Try to write the definition of regionalism.
- In Body,
- Mention the positive and negative sides of regionalism and why regionalism as a concept is more negative.
- Conclude with measures that can tackle the issue.
Answer
Introduction
Regionalism is an inclination or a philosophy among a segment of individuals dwelling in a specific topographical space portrayed by exceptional language, culture, and so forth, that they are the children of the dirt and each chance in their territory should be given to the first however not to the outcast.
Features of Regionalism
- Positive regionalism promotes a sense of pride in connecting to one’s roots and culture. It has been noticed that often regional movements have helped the art and culture of many neglected regions to flourish by increasing their exposure through local emphasis.
- Regional movements often result in violent agitations, disturb the law and order situation, and have negative implications on the economy of the state as well as the nation.
- Regional identities in India have not always defined themselves in opposition to and at the expense of, the national identity. For example- the Tripura Tribal Autonomous District Council (TTADC), formed in 1985, has served to protect an otherwise endangered tribal identity in the state by providing a democratic platform for former separatists to become a party of governance, and thereby significantly reducing the bases of political extremism in the state.
- Regionalism is said to be extreme when the love and interests of a particular region become absolute and different ‘regions/languages’ are seen to be mutually incompatible, antagonistic, and hostile.
Causes of Growing Regionalism
- Historical and geographical isolation, insider-outsider complex that nurturers nativism and son-of-the-soil ideology
- Uneven development, continuous neglect of a region, and internal colonialism, despite being rich in natural resources some regions remain economically underdeveloped.
- Ill-conceived top-down approach for development or survival of one region at the cost of the other region.
- Imposition of an ideology that might be in conflict with the ideology that people of a particular have been possessing for a long time.
- Linguistic aspirations and expression of ethnicity have long remained a formidable basis of regionalism.
Regionalism is considered more negative than positive
Low rate of economic growth:
The economic growth of India has been varying since independence. But with respect to the high growth of population, the economic growth has not been enough to catch the development at full speed. In the last decade, the economic growth was progressive, but now they are reeling under the influence of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Socio-economic and political organization of states:
The states have been incompetent to do adequate land reforms and the feudal mentality persists. Bhoodan and Gramdan movements, after independence, were not enthusiastically carried, and even land under land banks was not efficiently distributed.
The lower level of infrastructural facilities in backward states:
The extent of infrastructural development, such as power distribution, irrigation facilities, modern markets for agricultural products, and roads, has been backstage which can be seen in states like Jharkhand and Odisha.
Low level of social expenditure by states on education, health, and sanitation:
These subjects are core for human resource development. The states that have spent heavily on these subjects, fall under the developed and advanced states, for example, Tamil Nadu, where health care services in Primary health centers are benchmark for other states.
Political and administration failure:
This is a source of tension and gives birth to subregional movements for separate states. Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand and recently Telangana are the result of these failures. Many such demands are in the pipeline such as Vidarbha, Saurashtra, etc. These failures also weaken the confidence of private players and do not attract investors in the states.
“Son of the Soil” doctrine explains a form of regionalism,
which has been in discussion since 1950. According to it, a state specifically belongs to the main linguistic group inhabiting it or that the state represents the exclusive homeland of its main language speakers, who are the sons of the soil or residents.
Mahatma Gandhi broadly said. “I am a proud Gujarati and a proud Indian and I don’t see any difference between the two.” If regionalism advances craftsmanship and social ethos without leaving a hand, it will bind together the country and be a fortifying variable.
Conclusion
India’s solidarity lies in its variety, which ought to be safeguarded and advanced no matter what, for really at that time comprehensive improvement happened and India can develop all in all. The limits of the express that gap individuals phonetically or authoritatively are joined by one country, one constitution, and one soul and this is India that is joined by its kin, all things considered, all religions, and all districts. GOI initiatives like “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat ”is to reinforce a sense of “nationhood”, identity, and cultural pride among the people.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the concept of Regionalism in India?
A: Regionalism in India refers to the tendency of certain regions within the country to assert and prioritize their distinct cultural, linguistic, or historical identity. It often manifests in demands for autonomy or special status for a particular region.
Q: How does rising cultural assertiveness contribute to Regionalism?
A: The assertion of cultural identity is a key factor contributing to regionalism. As communities become more aware and proud of their cultural distinctiveness, there is a tendency to seek greater autonomy or recognition, leading to the emergence of regionalist movements.
Q: What are the key drivers of cultural assertiveness in India?
A: Cultural assertiveness can be driven by factors such as historical grievances, linguistic diversity, and a desire for political and economic autonomy. Social movements, historical events, and a growing sense of identity contribute to the rising cultural assertiveness observed in various regions.
Q: How does Regionalism impact the political landscape of India?
A: Regionalism can have significant implications for Indian politics. It often results in the formation of regional political parties that advocate for the interests of a specific region. This can influence national politics, shaping policies and alliances based on regional demands.
Q: Is Regionalism a challenge or an opportunity for India’s unity?
A: The impact of regionalism on India’s unity is subjective. While some argue that it poses a challenge by potentially fragmenting the country, others see it as an opportunity for decentralized governance and the recognition of diverse identities within a unified nation. The balance between accommodating regional aspirations and maintaining national unity is a complex and ongoing process.
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