Question

Can you identify any ideas or theories which have led to the formation of social movements in India in recent times?

Answer 1

Many social theories have been at the root of social movements in India after independence. These include theories related to socialism, feminism, and environmentalism. Socialist movements have strived to secure economic justice for backward classes. The idea of socialism has been recognised in the preamble of the Constitution of India as well. Dalits and tribals have participated in socio-political movements to acquire political power based on the ideas of social reform movements of the nineteenth and twentieth century. These groups had been exploited from ancient times and are now endeavouring to claim their place in society. Feminism seeks to redefine the role of women in society and bring it on equal footing with that of men. Feminist movements have struggled against stereotypes and made efforts to secure the rights of women at home and the workplace with some degree of success. Environmental movements have combined environmental and social concerns of people who have been overshadowed by developmental concerns. The Gandhian ideals of peaceful agitation and simplistic living have their association with most of these movements. Environmentalism has recently acquired a prominent focus among social concerns with problems like climate change and its attendant costs, particularly for developing countries. Major socio-environmental movements in India are the Chipko movement, the Appiko movement, Narmada Bachao Andolan, and Silent Valley conservation.