Effect of Globalization on Indian Society | Indian Society for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Effects of Globalization On Indian Economy 

Positive Effects of Globalization on Economy 

• Increased Job Opportunities and Private Sector Growth: Increased job opportunities and growth in the private sector, particularly in the services industry, due to the presence of foreign companies and economic expansion.
• Lower Costs and Improved Efficiency: Lower costs and improved efficiency through global sourcing of materials and labour, leading to cost savings, enhanced productivity, and a wider range of goods for consumers.
• Higher Disposable Incomes: Higher disposable incomes for urban workers, resulting in increased demand for luxury products like organic food and high-end cars.
• Rise in India's GDP Growth Rate: Rise in India's GDP growth rate, from 5.6% in the 1980s-90s to 4% as per the 2016-17 Union Budget.
• Boost in Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs): Boost in foreign direct investments (FDIs), fostering economic development and reconstruction in developing countries.
• The success of Indian Startups in the Global Market: The emergence of successful Indian startups, such as Reliance, Infosys, and Think and Learn Private Limited (Byjus), making an impact in the global market.
• Greater Consumer Choice and Variety: Greater consumer choice and variety in products, from cars to electronics, as globalization expands the consumer goods market.
• Breaking Down Cultural Barriers: Breaking down cultural barriers through increased information flow and cultural exchange, promoting cultural understanding and integration.
• Accelerated Infrastructure Growth: Infrastructure growth accelerated by globalization, with advancements in sectors like telecommunications, transportation, insurance, and more.

Negative Effects of Globalization on Economy

• Shrinking Agricultural Sector: Agriculture in 2020-21 contributes only about 19.9% to GDP. The international norms imposed by WTO and other multilateral organizations have reduced government support for agriculture.
• Coupled with the greater integration of global commodities markets leading to constant fluctuation in prices.
• Job Displacement: Globalization leads to job losses in sectors like textiles and manufacturing as companies outsource to countries with cheaper labour, impacting livelihoods.
• Economic Inequality: Globalization contributes to income inequality, with a significant wealth gap between the rich and poor, leaving marginalized communities behind.
• Cultural Erosion: Globalization erodes traditional practices and values, overshadowing local cultural identities and languages with dominant global influences.
• Environmental Concerns: Increased industrialization and global trade contribute to pollution, deforestation, resource depletion, and climate change.

Effects of Globalization on Agriculture 

• Agreement on Agriculture of the WTO: WTO's Agreement on Agriculture aimed to address unfair practices and initiate agricultural sector reforms.
• Farmer’s suicide (NCRB data): High farmer suicide rates (NCRB data) indicate the deep stress and debt-related issues in the farming sector. The sector accounted for 7.4% of total suicides, with 5,957 farmers and 4,324 agricultural labourers losing their lives.

Positive Effects of Globalization on Agriculture 

• Increase in National Income: Access to international markets for Indian agricultural goods has led to increased production, and adoption of new technology and seeds, contributing to higher agricultural output.
  Example: The increase in the export of Basmati rice has boosted national income.
• Increase in Employment: Exporting agricultural products requires classification, standardization, processing, and packaging, leading to job creation in related industries.
• Increase in Share in Trade: WTO provisions provide equal opportunities, resulting in an increase in agricultural product exports.
  Example: India's export of spices has witnessed significant growth in international trade share.
• Increase in Export of Agricultural Goods: Higher international prices for agricultural goods create export opportunities, especially when developed countries reduce subsidies.
  Example: Increase in export of Indian mangoes due to their popularity and higher prices in international markets.
• Cooperation with Foreign Nations: Globalization has facilitated research collaborations with foreign countries, leading to knowledge transfer and technological advancements.
  Example: Collaboration with Israel for drip irrigation technology implementation.
• Support for Farmers: Globalization has encouraged corporate and contract farming, providing support and resources to farmers.
  Example: Partnership between farmers and multinational companies for cultivation and marketing of agricultural products.
• Improvement in the Food Processing Industry: The growth of food processing industries has provided value addition to agricultural produce, benefiting farmers.
  Example: Establishment of modern food processing units for fruits and vegetables, leading to increased income for farmers.

Negative Effects of Globalization on Agriculture 

• Grants by Developed Countries: Developed countries distributed grants on a large scale, creating favourable conditions for them.
  For instance, subsidies provided by the European Union to its farmers affected the competitiveness of Indian farmers in the global market.
• Small Production Field: With 60% of the Indian population dependent on agriculture, the pressure on limited land and high production costs create disguised employment.
  This is evident in the case of small-scale farmers cultivating marginal plots of land.
• Intellectual Property Rights: Intellectual property rights in agriculture have disadvantaged Indian farmers.
• Multinational companies entering the agricultural sector pose challenges for marginal farmers.
  An example is the patenting of genetically modified seeds by multinational corporations, limiting access for small-scale farmers.
• Increasing Production Expenditure and Low Crop Prices: Rising production costs, such as expensive seeds, coupled with decreasing crop prices, push farmers into bankruptcy.
  This is observed in the case of cotton farmers who face high costs of genetically modified Bt cotton seeds while dealing with volatile market prices.
• Cash Crop Demand and Supply: Farmers shift focus to cash crops, but fluctuating demand and prices pose risks. This has implications for food security when farmers prioritize cash crops over essential food crops.
  An example is the shift from food grains to tobacco cultivation in some regions.
• International Market Prices: Global market prices can impact local prices.
  As seen in the sugar industry where fluctuations in international sugar prices influence domestic prices, affecting the income of sugarcane farmers.
• The casualization of Labor: Globalization promotes the casualization of labour, with formal wage workers being shifted to informal employment without minimum wages or benefits.
  This trend is observed in sectors like garment manufacturing, where workers are hired on a temporary or contractual basis, lacking job security and social protection.

Way Forward 

• The Indian government has implemented various initiatives to promote growth in basic services, such as the
  Bharatmala project for road development, the Sagarmala project for port modernization, and the Digital India
  program for improved communication infrastructure.
• Policies like the Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana address electricity supply and financial issues in agriculture.
• Schemes like Make in India and Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) aim to increase production and boost exports, while programs like the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana and National Food Security Mission encourage planned production and crop diversification to stabilize prices.

Positive Aspects of Globalization on Family and Marriages 

• New celebrations: Globalization has introduced new occasions like Valentine's Day and Mother's/Father's Day, along with weekend parties and visits to pubs and discos.
• Job opportunities: Globalization has opened up higher education and job opportunities, influencing Indian families in urban areas.
• Changing dining patterns: Family dining has shifted towards watching TV or chatting on computers during meals.
• Dual-earning couples: The rise of dual-earning couples has altered traditional family roles, affecting family dynamics and impacting children and the elderly.
• Increase in love marriages: Globalization has led to an increase in love marriages and greater acceptance of inter-caste and inter-religious marriages.
• Expanded search for partners: Parents use the internet to find brides and grooms, seeking NRI partners for their Westernized outlook and higher disposable income.
• Education abroad as an investment: Families send their children abroad for advanced studies as an investment, particularly in states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
• Trade and prosperity: Economic globalization has led to increased trade, economic growth, and rising prosperity, associated with declining birth rates and family size.
• Online friendship networks as "family": Cultural globalization has fostered online friendship networks that individuals consider as their "family," shaping social connections.

Negative Aspects of Globalization on Family and Marriages 

• Erosion of traditional family values: Globalization can lead to the erosion of traditional family values and customs in India.
• Breakdown of the joint family system: Globalization has contributed to the decline of the joint family system, with nuclear families becoming more prevalent.
• Increased divorce rates: Globalization has been associated with higher divorce rates in India, as exposure to new ideas and values can challenge traditional marital norms.
• Influence of Western culture: Western cultural influences through globalization can disrupt traditional Indian family structures and norms.
• Generation gap and cultural conflicts: Globalization has widened the generation gap and caused cultural conflicts between younger and older generations within families.
• Economic pressures on families: Globalization can increase economic pressures on families, as they strive to meet the demands of a consumerist society.
• Negative impact on gender roles: Globalization can reinforce traditional gender roles and stereotypes, limiting opportunities and choices for women within families.
• Impact on children: Globalization can lead to the loss of cultural identity and values among children, as they become exposed to foreign influences through media and education.

Globalization and Its Impact on India culture and Tradition 

• Cultural Fusion: Globalization has led to the fusion of Indian culture with various international influences, resulting in a vibrant and diverse cultural landscape.
  Example: Bollywood movies incorporating Western dance styles like hip-hop and salsa.
• Cultural Exchange: Increased global interactions have facilitated cultural exchange, allowing Indians to learn from and appreciate different cultures worldwide.
  Example: Indian cuisine's popularity worldwide, with dishes like butter chicken and masala dosa being enjoyed globally.
• Cultural Preservation: Globalization has also sparked a renewed interest in preserving and revitalizing traditional Indian arts, crafts, music, and dance forms.
  Example: Government initiatives to revive traditional Indian crafts like Madhubani painting and Pashmina weaving.
• Westernization: Globalization has brought Western cultural elements into Indian society, influencing lifestyle choices, fashion, and entertainment.
  Example: The influence of Western fashion trends is seen in the popularity of jeans and t-shirts among Indian youth.
• Language Impact: The dominance of English as a global language has impacted local languages and dialects, leading to a decline in their usage.
  Example: English becoming the primary language of communication in urban areas and corporate settings.
• Changing Social Norms: Globalization has challenged traditional social norms and values, influencing concepts of marriage, family structure, and gender roles.
  Example: Increased acceptance of inter-caste and inter-religious marriages in urban Indian society.
• Tourism Boost: Globalization has increased tourism in India, providing opportunities for cultural exchange and showcasing Indian traditions and heritage to international visitors.
  Example: The growth of spiritual tourism, attracts visitors to destinations like Varanasi for its cultural and religious significance.
• Indian Festivals: The adoption of international events like Friendship Day and Valentine's Day, which were not traditionally celebrated in Indian society, signifies the changing cultural landscape and integration with the world.
• Family Life: Globalization creates challenges for married couples, particularly in Information Technology, where work opportunities abroad lead to prolonged separation, affecting the quality of family life.

Revival Of Culture 

• Revival of Yoga: In the country as well as at the international level. This can be seen in the popularity of the ‘Art of Living’ course by Ravi Shankar, or the celebration of International Yoga Day across the world.
• Revival of Ayurvedic medicines: There has been a revival of Ayurvedic medicines in the country as well as outside it.
• Religious revivalism: Due to increasing uncertainty by inter-linkage with the outside world, there has been religious revivalism. This can be manifested in the use of religion to attract voters or mobilise people on the basis of religion.
• Increase demand for local: Increasing demand for local handicraft products in the global market, such as Chikenkari or Bandhani.
• Increasing global tourism: Due to increasing global tourism, locals are making efforts to preserve their diversity and revive their traditions.

Homogenization of Culture 

• The process of rising global interconnectedness and interdependence has led to the standardization and uniformization of culture across the world.
• Change in family structure and Rise in retirement homes and community culture.
• Homogenization in food and clothing.
• Homogenization in teaching methods like smart classrooms, and virtual learning apps.
• Homogenization of English Language. For example, 196 Indian languages are in danger of extinction, according to UNESCO’s Atlas of the World’s Languages in Danger of Disappearing (UNESCO 2009).
• Homogenization of Yoga across the world is a contribution from Indian land.
• Homogenization in values and rights like democracy, scientific temper, rationality, human rights, child rights, and banking culture.

Effects of Globalization on Women 

• The current wave of globalization has greatly improved the lives of women worldwide, particularly the lives of those women in the developing world. Nevertheless, women remain disadvantaged in many areas of their life.

Positive Impact of Globalization on Women 

• Economic empowerment: Globalization has led to an increase in women's wages and employment opportunities, with women benefiting from formal industrial sectors and multinational companies.
  Example: Women earn higher wages than men in export sectors.
• Expanded choices and self-confidence: Globalization has provided women with increased social and life choices, along with enhanced self-confidence and morale, resulting in greater independence.
  Example: Women gain more social and life choices due to increased family income.
• Education and health improvements: Globalization has contributed to improved access to education, higher literacy rates among women, and advancements in healthcare, leading to declines in child marriage, maternal mortality, and infant mortality rates.
  Example: Rise in women's literacy rate and decline in maternal mortality rate.
• Participation in socio-political roles: Globalization has gradually increased the participation of women in leadership and decision-making positions, although underrepresentation persists in crucial roles.
  Example: Women's representation in Panchayat Raj Institution at 49%.
• Diversification and challenges in rural and urban contexts: Globalization has brought changes to rural and urban areas, including diversification of employment, access to education, and formal employment opportunities for urban women, while challenges such as the feminization of agriculture and rural poverty persist.
  Example: Rural women experience a shift from agricultural to non-agricultural sectors, while urban women benefit from IT sector growth.

Negative of Globalization on Women 

• Work-life balance challenges: Women face difficulties in balancing long working hours and household responsibilities, impacting their performance and hindering success.
  Example: Juggling work commitments with cooking and childcare responsibilities.
• Gender inequalities in globalization: Globalization has amplified gender disparities in terms of resources, time allocation, access to opportunities, and decision-making power, further exacerbating existing inequalities.
  Example: Unequal access to productive inputs and limited agency for women.
• Persistence of patriarchal mindset: Despite globalization, patriarchal attitudes in society contribute to the commodification of women, increased harassment on social media, and higher rates of violence against women.
  Example: Objectification of women in advertisements and instances of cyberbullying.
• Impact of consumer culture: Women are both targets and victims of consumer culture, which reduces them to commodities as consumers and exposes them to exploitation and occupational hazards as producers.
  Example: Sexual objectification of women in advertising and poor working conditions in garment factories.
• Social issues and exploitation: Globalization has contributed to negative consequences such as the rise of prostitution, increased cases of abuse, and dowry-related suicides.
  Example: Instances of dowry-related violence.

Effects of Globalization on Youth 

The majority of India’s population is young (India is witnessing a demographic dividend). The population growth among youth is one of the most critical factors in the way India responds to globalization. Indian youth are fueling both positive and negative perceptions given to globalization.

Positive impact of Globalization on Youth 

• Hybridization of values and demand for a cosmopolitan society: Indian youth are embracing a blend of Western and Indian values, seeking a more cosmopolitan society, as seen in the popularity of Western fashion and preferences for a global economy.
  Example: Indian youth incorporating Western music and fashion into traditional festivals like Holi.
• Importance of skills and promoting a global village: Globalization emphasizes the need for education and skills among youth, fostering cross-cultural exchange and connecting them to the world, as seen in the rising awareness and vocal activism.
  Example: Young people acquire digital skills to connect with peers worldwide through social media platforms.
• Focus on education and enterprise: The aspiration of Indian youth is to become economically successful through education and entrepreneurial endeavours, reflecting their ambition for financial prosperity.
  Example: Young entrepreneurs starting tech startups to tap into the global market.
• Changing attitudes towards religion and promoting a modernized form: Many youths are redefining their relationship with religion, seeking a modernized form, while questioning traditional practices and calling for reform.
  Example: Young people advocating for gender equality within religious institutions.
• Youth empowerment and participation: Increased awareness has made youth more vocal about their rights and demands, leading to greater participation in policymaking.
  Example: Youth-led movements advocating for climate change action and environmental policies.

NEGATIVE IMPACT OF GLOBALIZATION ON YOUTH

•  Cultural shifts in clothing preferences: Urban youth in India are increasingly embracing Western fashion trends, leading to a decline in the popularity of traditional Indian attire.
  Example: The rising popularity of jeans and t-shirts among urban youth, overshadows traditional garments like sarees and kurta-pyjamas.
• Generation gap and loss of intergenerational wisdom: Youth today are growing more distant from their elders, resulting in a decrease in the transfer of valuable knowledge and wisdom from one generation to another.
  Example: Decreased interaction between youth and grandparents, leading to a loss of traditional stories, cultural practices, and familial values.
• Health consequences of sedentary lifestyles: The adoption of sedentary lifestyles among youth, characterized by a lack of physical activity, has led to an increase in health disorders.
  Example: Spending excessive time on screens and limited engagement in physical activities contributes to rising obesity rates and related health issues among the youth.
• Marginalization of disadvantaged youth: Many young individuals belonging to marginalized communities face barriers to accessing the opportunities offered by globalization, such as education, skills, and basic services.
  Example: Rural youth lack access to quality education, job training, and technological resources necessary for competing in the global job market.
• Urban migration and unemployment challenges: Economic globalization has fueled increased migration to urban areas, leading to a rise in urban poverty and unemployment, particularly among young individuals.
  Example: Rural youth moving to cities in search of better opportunities but encountering difficulties in finding stable employment due to intense competition and limited job availability.

Effects of Globalization on Tribals 

Positive Impact of Globalization on Tribal

• Increased access to education and healthcare: Globalization has brought improved access to education and healthcare services for tribal communities, empowering them with knowledge and improving their overall well-being.
  Example: Introduction of schools and healthcare facilities in remote tribal areas, providing better opportunities for education and healthcare.
• Economic opportunities and income generation: Globalization has created new economic opportunities for tribals through employment in industries, tourism, and market integration, leading to improved income and livelihoods.
  Example: Tribal artisans selling their handicrafts and traditional products in global markets, generating income and preserving their cultural heritage.
• Preservation and promotion of indigenous cultures: Globalization has facilitated the recognition and promotion of indigenous cultures, traditions, and arts on a global platform, contributing to cultural preservation and identity pride.
  Example: Tribal festivals, music, dances, and artwork gaining international recognition and appreciation, leading
  to cultural revitalization.
• Access to information and technology: Globalization has increased access to information and technology for tribal communities, enabling them to connect with the world, access resources, and expand their knowledge base.
  Example: Internet connectivity and mobile technology reaching remote tribal areas, providing access to information, communication, and online markets.
• Collaborative partnerships and advocacy: Globalization has facilitated collaborative partnerships between tribal communities, non-governmental organizations, and international agencies, leading to advocacy for tribal rights, land protection, and cultural preservation.
  Example: Global initiatives supporting tribal land rights and sustainable development, promoting the voices and interests of tribal communities.

Negative Impact of Globalization on Tribal 

• Resource exploitation: Globalization has created favorable conditions for the extraction of natural resources from tribal territories, leading to ecological fragility and exploitation.
  Example: Mining companies extracting minerals from tribal lands without adequate consideration for environmental sustainability or the well-being of tribal communities.
• Vested interests: Market forces often prioritize the interests of wealth creation over the livelihood and security of indigenous tribal people, leading to disparities and inequities.
  Example: Economic development projects benefiting external investors while disregarding the well-being and rights of tribal communities.
• Unemployment: Despite industrial and mining activities in tribal areas, the employment opportunities for tribals in modern enterprises are limited, resulting in high levels of unemployment.
  Example: Industrial activities in the central Indian tribal belt providing minimal employment opportunities for local tribal populations.
• Affecting social life: Globalization exacerbates the vulnerability and social exclusion of tribal communities, leading to the loss of traditional livelihoods and the marginalization of tribal groups.
  Example: Displacement of tribals from their lands and forced migration to urban slums due to development projects and resource extraction.
• Subnational movements: Inadequate social and economic infrastructure in tribal areas has contributed to the emergence of subnational movements seeking greater autonomy and self-governance.
  Example: Movements like Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, and Bodoland arise from the dissatisfaction of tribal communities with their representation and access to resources.