Is diversity and pluralism in India under threat due to globalisation?

Ques. Is diversity and pluralism in India under threat due to globalization? Discuss.

Answer

• Intro words – 43. Conclusion words – 47, Body words – (Yes – 100, NO – 91) 191. Total Words Used – 281

  • India’s greatness lies in its unique culture signifying diversity which in recent times has been termed to be under threat, due to process of globalisation through expanding and accelerating the movement of ideas, people, capital and exchange of commodities in ways such as –
    • Cultural and Traditional Homogenisation
      • MNC culture has resulted in a central common language (English) and suppressing regional dialects, and minority languages.
      • “Macdonalisation” of Indian Food habits, leaving behind their traditional cuisines.
    • Nuclear Families in place of Joint Families –
      • a characteristic of Indian Society has now become extinct because of the globalised world.
    • Caste Secularisation:
      • Globalisation has led to decreased emphasis on localised castes, and today class has taken the place of caste.
    • Homogenization of wants and thinking:
      • Global market decides what’s to be produced, resulting into low incentive for diverse products which means Loss of local artefacts, promotion of western dressing, shift from local culinary habits etc.

  However, there is silver lining to this black thunder –

  • Digitisation and Academic reach – It has helped in conservation of our culture, literary sources and heritage.
    • Higher Literacy rate and Foreign Universities collaborating with Indian Universities.
    • Example – National Manuscripts Mission is digitising and sustaining India’s rich literary sources.
  • Spread of Indian Culture worldwide – Example International Yoga Day is celebrated at a global scale now.
  • Emergence of New Identity of Indian Culture. Example – Wearing Kurta along with Jean.
    • In fact, Today, actually some of our identities are even growing stronger because of the growing consciousness and aggressive tendencies to protect the culture.
  • Globalisation is a 20th century phenomenon, but India has seen several invasions since Ancient times on it culture, traditions and ways of life, but every time it has only proved it metal and stood its ground firmly and todays India is a reflection of assimilation of every challenge and opportunity that has come its way.