May 3 – GS2/Social Justice: 2026 | UPSC Daily Answer Writing Practice PDF Download

Q: Discuss the impact of globalization on traditional Indian values and social institutions.  (150 words)

Introduction

Globalization is a process that involves the growing interconnectedness and interdependence of countries around the world in terms of their economies, cultures, and populations. It has become a defining characteristic of the 21st century. For India, a country with a rich history and diverse cultural practices spanning thousands of years, globalization has brought about significant changes. This phenomenon has affected every aspect of Indian society, including its economy and social norms, challenging long-standing beliefs and transforming traditional institutions.

Impact of Globalization on Traditional Indian Values and Social Institutions

• Family Structure:Globalization has impacted the traditional joint family system in India, leading to an increase in nuclear families, especially in urban areas. This shift is driven by factors such as:
  • Job mobility
  • Changing attitudes toward individualism
  • Economic pressures
  • For instance, by 2022, nuclear families made up half of all Indian households.
• Marriage and Relationships:There has been a shift from traditional arranged marriages to love marriages and live-in relationships, particularly in urban areas. This change is influenced by:
  • Greater exposure to global cultures
  • Higher education levels
  • Financial independence of women
  • For example, a report by WeddingWire India noted a 24% decline in arranged marriages since 2020.
• Gender Roles and Women's Empowerment: Globalization has played a role in changing gender dynamics in India by:
  • Increasing workforce participation among women
  • Promoting gender equality
  • Challenging patriarchal norms
  • For instance, the Female Labour Force Participation Rate in India improved by 4.2 percentage points to 37.0% in 2023.
• Consumerism and Materialism: The influx of global brands and consumer culture has affected traditional values of simplicity and frugality, leading to:
  • Increased conspicuous consumption
  • A shift from saving to spending orientations
  • Adoption of Western consumption patterns
  • For instance, India’s e-commerce market is projected to reach USD 200 billion by 2026.
• Religious and Spiritual Practices: Globalization has influenced religious and spiritual practices in India by:
  • Commercializing religious festivals and rituals
  • Promoting new-age spirituality and wellness practices
  • Fostering interfaith dialogue and understanding
  • For example, the global yoga market was estimated at USD 107.1 billion in 2023, with India being a significant contributor.
• Education System: Globalization has led to changes in the Indian education system, including:
  • Adoption of international curricula, such as the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE)
  • Emphasis on skill-based learning and employability
  • Increasing numbers of students pursuing higher education abroad
  • For example, over 1.3 million Indian students were studying abroad in 2024.

Conclusion

 Globalization has significantly altered traditional Indian values and social institutions. While it has brought many opportunities and advancements, it also presents challenges to cultural preservation and social cohesion. The challenge lies in finding a balance between embracing global influences and safeguarding India’s rich cultural heritage.