Do you agree that regionalism in India appears to be a consequence of rising cultural assertiveness? Argue. (150 words) [2020]
Regionalism in India, or the prioritization of regional interests over national interests, can be seen as a consequence of rising cultural assertiveness for a number of reasons:
- Cultural differences: India is a diverse country with a multitude of cultures and languages, and regionalism can be seen as a way for people to preserve and celebrate their unique cultural identities.
- Historical injustices: Some regions may feel that they have been marginalized or treated unfairly by the central government, leading to a desire for greater autonomy and self-governance.
- Federal structure of government: India has a federal system of government, which means that power is divided between the central government and the states. This can create tension between the two levels of government, leading to regionalism as states push for greater autonomy and control over their own affairs.
- Political parties: Political parties often use regionalism as a campaign platform in order to appeal to voters in their respective regions. This can fuel regional identity and a sense of loyalty to one’s own region.
Overall, it can be argued that rising cultural assertiveness is one of the main drivers of regionalism in India, as it allows people to express and protect their unique cultural identities, and can also be used by political parties and governments as a way to gain support and advance their own agendas.
