Question Q19GS2GS1

The regionalism in India is both a response to the failures in addressing regional aspirations and as an assertion of socio-cultural identity in the face of perceived marginalization. Comment. (15 marks, 250 words)

Introduction

Regionalism stems from a desire for political and administrative autonomy, management of natural peculiarities and ownership of resource identities.

19 words

Main Body

Regionalism in India

(A) Response to failures of addressing regional aspirations

1Cultural aspirations => demand of the north-eastern state to declare separate states.

Eg: Article 244(4) => separate statehood for Manipur.

2Economic aspirations => relative deprivation ignites regionalism.

Eg: Haryana, Bihar => Western UP, Vidarbha in Maharashtra.

3Historical aspirations => colonial legacy has left the bitter after taste of regionalism.

Eg: Kathik => part of separate Kathiawal kingdom.

4Linguistic aspirations => part of the post-colonial drive of creating linguistic states.

Eg: Belgium => Marathi speaking population => part of Karnataka.

(b) Assertion of socio-cultural identity

1Tamil Nadu => separate from Karnataka & Tamil Nadu on account of 'Tamil' language and culture.

2Vindhyanchal => distinct pitural geography and relatively underdeveloped region, as compared to MP and Chhattisgarh.

3Historical aspirations => colonial legacy has left the bitter after taste of regionalism.

Eg: Kathik => part of separate Kathiawal Kingdom.

4Linguistic aspirations => part of the post-colonial derive of creating linguistic states.

Eg: Belgium => Marathi speaking population => part of Karnataka.

(b) Assertion of socio-cultural identity

1Tamil Nadu => separate from Karnataka & Tamil Nadu on account of 'Tamil' language and culture.

2Vindhyanchal => distinct pitural geography and relatively underdeveloped region, as compared to MP and Chhattisgarh.

215 words4 paragraphs

Conclusion

Thus, regionalism is an important spice of the multi-faceted every spice of Indian nationalism.

14 words

Structured answer with clear categorization (Response vs Assertion)
Use of specific examples from India (Manipur, Haryana, Bihar, Vidarbha, Tamil Nadu, Kathik)
Mentions historical context and colonial legacy
Connects with post-colonial administrative changes
Addresses both demand and assertion aspects of regionalism

Open original scan

Page 46

Topper

Ritika Chitlangia

AIR 55

Subject & Paper

GS2GS1

Topic

Effects of Globalization on Indian society

Regionalism

Regionalism in India

Writing Stats

248

Total words

Paragraphs

Academic/analytical

Tone