Q : What is the basis of regionalism? Is it that unequal distribution of benefits of development on regional basis eventually promotes regionalism? Substantiate your answer.  ( 2016 PYQ, 15 Marks )

Introduction :

Regionalism refers to the strong loyalty or political identity attached to a particular region, often arising from shared history, culture, language, or perceived neglect. In India, it has evolved as both a cultural assertion and a response to uneven development since independence.

Main Body 

 Basis of Regionalism in India

1. Historical and Cultural Basis:
• Shared traditions, languages, and cultural practices — e.g., Tamil, Marathi, Punjabi identities — form the emotional and symbolic foundation of regional consciousness. { CAN MAKE MAP SHOWING DIFFRENT LANGUAGES }
2. Linguistic Basis:
• The reorganization of states (1956) itself recognized language as a major unifying force — e.g., Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra movements were language-driven.
3. Economic and Developmental Basis:
• Unequal access to resources, investment, and employment fuels regional disparity — e.g., Vidarbha (Maharashtra), Bodoland (Assam), Telangana. { CAN MAKE MAP SHOWING DIFFRENT POOR AND RICH AREAS }
4. Political and Administrative Neglect:
• Centralized planning and elite capture of resources have generated feelings of marginalization in backward regions.
5. Geographical and Environmental Factors:
• Ecological isolation (e.g., Northeast India, Ladakh) limits participation in national development and fosters distinct regional identities.

Unequal Development and Regionalism 

1. Economic Disparities :
• Industrial and infrastructural concentration in select regions (Western and Southern India) created a “core-periphery” imbalance, alienating underdeveloped states.
2. Relative Deprivation and Political Mobilization:
• The feeling of being left behind fuels relative deprivation, leading to organized regional movements — e.g., Telangana movement (2014) citing neglect of Rayalaseema and Telangana in resource allocation.
3. Resource and Identity Nexus:
• Regions rich in natural resources but poor in development (e.g., Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh) mobilized identity politics to demand autonomy and control over local resources. { CAN MAKE MAP SHOWING DIFFRENT AFFECTED AREAS }
4. Centre–State Relations and Fiscal Federalism:
• Perceptions of fiscal injustice and central dominance (e.g., southern states’ demand for fair tax devolution) further intensify regional sentiments.

Way Forward : Use Hub and spoke model while writing

• Balanced Regional Development: Strengthen backward region grants and targeted infrastructure schemes.
• Cooperative Federalism: Promote greater fiscal autonomy and equal representation in national planning.
• Participatory Governance: Empower regional and local institutions for decentralized decision-making.
• Equitable Resource Allocation: Ensure just distribution of industrial projects and public expenditure.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Recognize and celebrate regional identities within a national framework.

Conclusion :

A balanced, inclusive model of federalism can transform regionalism into a source of national strength rather than fragmentation.