What is Social Movements?
Historical Background
Key Points
10 points- 1.
Involve collective action by a large number of people
- 2.
Aim to bring about or resist social change
- 3.
Often use protests, demonstrations, and advocacy
- 4.
Address specific issues or grievances
- 5.
Can be local, national, or global
- 6.
May be organized or spontaneous
- 7.
Rely on shared beliefs and values
- 8.
Seek to influence public opinion and policy
- 9.
Can lead to policy changes and social reforms
- 10.
Examples include farmers' movements, environmental movements, and women's rights movements
Visual Insights
Evolution of Social Movements in India
Key social movements and their impact on Indian society.
Social movements in India have played a crucial role in shaping social and political landscape, advocating for various causes from independence to environmental protection and social justice.
- 1920Non-Cooperation Movement
- 1930Civil Disobedience Movement
- 1942Quit India Movement
- 1951Bhoodan Movement
- 1970sChipko Movement
- 1980sEnvironmental Movements (Narmada Bachao Andolan)
- 1990sAnti-Arrack Movement
- 2000sRight to Information (RTI) Movement
- 2011India Against Corruption Movement
- 2019Protests against Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA)
- 2020Farmers' Protest against Farm Laws
Recent Developments
5 developmentsRise of online activism and social media movements
Increasing focus on environmental and climate justice
Growing awareness of social inequality and discrimination
Challenges to freedom of assembly and expression
Impact of global events on social movements
This Concept in News
1 topicsFrequently Asked Questions
61. What are social movements and what is their constitutional basis in India?
Social movements are organized efforts by a large number of people to bring about or resist social change. They involve collective action, advocacy, and protests to address specific issues or grievances. The constitutional basis lies in Article 19(1)(a) (Freedom of speech and expression), Article 19(1)(b) (Right to assemble peacefully and without arms), and Article 19(1)(c) (Right to form associations or unions). These articles provide the fundamental rights that enable people to organize and participate in social movements.
Exam Tip
Remember Article 19(1)(a), (b), and (c) as the constitutional basis for social movements, ensuring freedom of speech, assembly, and association.
2. What are the key provisions that define a social movement?
The key provisions that define a social movement include:
- •Involve collective action by a large number of people.
- •Aim to bring about or resist social change.
- •Often use protests, demonstrations, and advocacy.
- •Address specific issues or grievances.
- •Can be local, national, or global.
Exam Tip
Focus on the elements of collective action, social change (or resistance to it), and the use of protests/advocacy to remember the key provisions.
3. How do social movements work in practice?
In practice, social movements operate through various stages. They typically begin with identifying a specific issue or grievance. Then, they involve mobilizing people through awareness campaigns, protests, and advocacy. They aim to influence public opinion and policy decisions. Successful movements often lead to policy changes or increased awareness about the issue.
Exam Tip
Understand the stages of a social movement: issue identification, mobilization, influencing public opinion, and achieving policy changes.
4. What is the significance of social movements in Indian democracy?
Social movements are crucial in Indian democracy as they provide a platform for marginalized groups to voice their concerns and demand social justice. They act as a check on government power and can influence policy-making. They also promote public participation and awareness about important social issues.
Exam Tip
Highlight the role of social movements in giving voice to marginalized groups, influencing policy, and promoting public participation in a democratic society.
5. What are the challenges in the implementation of social movement goals?
Challenges in implementing social movement goals include:
- •Resistance from established power structures.
- •Lack of resources and funding.
- •Internal divisions and conflicts within the movement.
- •Difficulty in sustaining momentum over time.
- •Government repression or opposition.
Exam Tip
Consider the internal and external challenges faced by social movements, including resistance from authorities and internal conflicts.
6. How has the rise of online activism and social media impacted social movements?
The rise of online activism and social media has significantly impacted social movements by providing new avenues for mobilization, communication, and advocacy. Social media platforms allow movements to reach a wider audience, organize protests, and share information quickly. However, it also presents challenges such as the spread of misinformation and government surveillance.
Exam Tip
Consider both the positive and negative impacts of online activism and social media on social movements, including increased reach and the risk of misinformation.