Discuss some of the striking issues of development induced imbalances that need urgent attention. (UPSC CSE Mains 2017 - Sociology, Paper 2)
Development-induced displacement refers to the forced migration of people from their homes due to development projects such as the construction of dams, roads, ports, airports, industrial complexes, urbanization, etc. It is a global phenomenon affecting millions of people annually. The displacement often results in severe economic, social, and cultural impacts.
Case Studies on Imbalances
- Narmada Valley Project, India: One of the most controversial cases of development-induced displacement is the Narmada Valley Project in India. The construction of large dams on the Narmada River led to the displacement of a large number of people, many of whom were tribal people with deep cultural and spiritual ties to the land. Despite promises of rehabilitation and compensation, many of the displaced people faced impoverishment, loss of livelihood, and cultural dislocation.
- Three Gorges Dam, China: The construction of the Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River in China resulted in the displacement of more than a million people. The affected people faced numerous challenges such as loss of livelihood, inadequate compensation, and social marginalization.
Sociological Perspective
- From a sociological perspective, development-induced displacement can be seen as a form of structural violence, where social structures or social institutions harm people by preventing them from meeting their basic needs. It often involves violation of human rights, particularly the right to adequate housing, food, health, and culture.
- The displacement often disproportionately affects marginalized and vulnerable groups such as indigenous people, ethnic minorities, and the poor. These groups often lack the resources and political power to resist displacement and negotiate fair compensation.
- The displacement can lead to numerous social problems such as increased poverty, social dislocation, loss of cultural identity, psychological trauma, and social conflict. It can also lead to the breakdown of social networks and community structures, which can further exacerbate the impacts of displacement.
Conclusion
- While development projects are often necessary for economic growth and improvement of living standards, it is crucial to ensure that they do not result in the displacement of people without adequate compensation and rehabilitation. There is a need for more inclusive and participatory approaches to development planning, where the rights and interests of all stakeholders, particularly the marginalized and vulnerable groups, are taken into consideration.
- Moreover, there is a need for more research and policy attention to the issue of development-induced displacement, particularly in the context of rapid urbanization and climate change. Such research can provide valuable insights into the social, economic, and cultural impacts of displacement and inform more equitable and sustainable development policies and practices.
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