Regionalism is less important in Indian Scenario !!!

 Regionalism stands for the love of a particular region or an area in preference to the nation or any other region. In Indian context, regionalism refers to assertion of distinct ethnic, linguistic or economic interests by various groups within the nation. Since the roots of regionalism lie in linguistic, ethnic, economic and cultural identities of the people living in specific geographical area, political scholars have treated various forms of regionalism which include economic regionalism, linguistic regionalism, political regionalism and even sub-regional movements in the general frame of regionalism.

India since Independence has witnessed different forms of regional inequalities in terms of economic growth, resources , infrastructure, etc. giving rise to subregional feelings , hence demand for separate states ex. Movements in Vidarbha region, Darjeeling / Gorkhaland in West Bengal , demand for Telangana ( now a State), etc. disputes like water sharing construction of irrigation and power dams , etc. ( between Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala ,Karnataka, Haryana , Delhi , etc.).
Thus, even though inequality among different states and regions could be a potential source of trouble but despite breeding discontent and putting pressure on the political system, this problem has not so far given rise to regionalism or feeling of a region being discriminated against the other.

Reasons for lack of Regionalism or regional feelings:

• Economic interdependence between different regions has necessitated the need for migration to different cities and states, thereby reducing loyalties towards a particular region.
• Political-Central government influence the rates of growth in poorer states and regions so as to reduce their economic distance from the richer states and regions. Planning Commission, BRGF, Special category status, grants etc. to poorest states have tried to bridge the gap between rich and poor states. Thus, we can say that, ‘Son’s of soil’ doctrine has tended to be an aberration but it has more to do with political opportunism rather than a general feeling.
• Thus contributing to reducing the regional disparities and regional and sub-regional feelings.
• Socio-cultural-The demand for creation of states on linguistic basis had also been given importance since 1962 and more recently with the creation of Telangana.
• Students belonging to different states come to metros to take admissions in Universities, which also aids in diluting parochial regional ideals and values and developing an all-India perspective.
• Regional feelings are also being subsumed under the wave of globalization which is making India more homogenous in culture and way of living.

Thus, we can say that due to the efforts of Central Govt. the regional feelings have so far been kept under limits. Also, Regionalism in its entirety is not negative as it plays a vital role in preserving cultural diversity of the country and can also at the same time be of great help in removing regional disparities in development. However, if uncontrolled, it can also become a cause of national disintegration.

By: ABHISHEK KUMAR GARG