Mains Marathon

• Introduce regionalism and the factors which influence it.
• Discuss the various dimensions which are beyond the traditional factor of regionalism.
• Conclude suitably.

Answer

Regionalism is a political ideology that focuses on the interests of a particular region, group of regions or other subnational entity. Regionalism in India is a multidimensional phenomenon that is influenced by various factors such as geography, history, culture, economy, and politics.

Regionalism can be seen as a response to the perceived or real inequalities and injustices among different regions in terms of development, resources, opportunities, and representation. Regionalism can also be seen as a manifestation of cultural identity and pride among various linguistic, ethnic, religious and tribal groups.

• Regionalism has witnessed a significant shift from traditional Socio Cultural to the livelihood concerns because of Unequitable Development, rise of sub-regionalism ans sub-nationalism, globalization etc.

Some of the new dimensions of regionalism that go beyond the traditional socio-cultural to the livelihood concerns are:

• Economic regionalism: It refers to the demand for more autonomy or statehood by regions that feel neglected or exploited by the central or state governments in terms of economic development, fiscal transfers, resource allocation and infrastructure. For example, the demand for separate states by Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh was based on their distinct economic potential and aspirations. Similarly, the demand for greater regional cooperation by northeastern states was based on their common economic challenges and opportunities.
• Environmental regionalism: It refers to the demand for more protection or preservation of the natural environment and biodiversity by regions that are rich in ecological resources or face environmental threats. For example, the demand for separate states by Uttarakhand and Telangana was partly based on their environmental concerns and grievances.
• Social regionalism: It refers to the demand for more recognition or respect of the social identity and diversity by regions that have distinct linguistic, ethnic, religious or cultural characteristics. For example, the demand for separate states by Gorkhaland and Bodoland was based on their linguistic and ethnic identity and aspirations.
• Political regionalism: It refers to the demand for more representation or participation in the political system by regions that feel underrepresented or ignored by the central or state governments or other political parties. It can also refer to the demand for more autonomy or self-rule by regions that seek greater control over their own affairs or resist interference from outside forces. For example, the demand for separate states by Nagaland was based on their political identity and aspirations.
• Cultural regionalism: It refers to the demand for more preservation or promotion of the cultural heritage and diversity by regions that have unique artistic, literary, musical or culinary traditions. Cultural regionalism can also refer to the demand for more exposure or exchange of cultural expressions among regions that share common cultural interests or influences. For example, the demand for separate states by Vidarbha and Marathwada was partly based on their cultural identity and pride.

Therefore, regionalism is acquiring new dimensions that go beyond the traditional socio-cultural to the livelihood concerns in India. These dimensions reflect the changing aspirations and challenges of various regions in India in the context of globalization and modernization. Regionalism can be a positive force for development and diversity if it is accommodated within a democratic framework that respects national unity and integrity.