Effects of Globalization on Indian society

Model Answer

Introduction

The quest for effective mental healthcare is fraught with challenges, especially in our globalized world where various factors impact mental well-being. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is essential for coping with life stresses and contributing to community (WHO, 2021).

Diverse Influencing Factors

Migration

Migrants face significant mental health challenges, including loneliness, cultural dislocation, and racism. These factors can lead to increased anxiety and depression (Bhugra, 2005).

Economic Factors

Low socio-economic status correlates with higher psychiatric morbidity. The competitive nature of modern society further exacerbates stress, particularly among youth (Marmot, 2005).

Changing Relationships

The decline of joint family systems has left many individuals without essential support networks, leading to increased marital stress and difficulty in forming new interpersonal relationships (Kumar, 2018).

Social Media Influence

The rise of social media has contributed to increased anxiety and depression among young people due to addiction and a culture of comparison that disrupts sleep and alters behavior (Twenge et al., 2017).

Systemic Challenges in India

Despite initiatives like the National Mental Health Program, significant barriers remain:

Stigma

Stigma surrounding mental health prevents individuals from seeking help, leading to isolation and worsening conditions (Corrigan, 2004).

Resource Shortages

India has a severe shortage of mental health professionals, with only 0.75 psychiatrists per 100,000 people, far below the WHO recommended ratio of three (WHO, 2017).

Inadequate Training

The training of healthcare providers often fails to meet the demand for specialized mental health care, limiting effective treatment options (Reddy, 2016).

Funding Issues

Less than 40% of allocated funds for mental health initiatives have been utilized, demonstrating a lack of commitment to addressing these critical issues (National Mental Health Survey, 2016).

Conclusion

Addressing mental health care in a globalized context requires a multifaceted approach that recognizes the diverse needs of populations. Policy measures must be tailored to address socio-economic and cultural factors, promoting an inclusive and effective mental health system.

Model Answer

Globalization has played a significant role in reshaping social structures in India, with both positive and negative effects on social exclusion. While it has reduced certain exclusions, it has simultaneously exacerbated others, leading to the creation of new forms of exclusion.

Impact on Existing Exclusions

1. Caste-based Exclusion: Globalization has contributed to the weakening of caste-based social hierarchies. Economic liberalization, better access to education, and liberal values have provided marginalized communities, particularly Dalits, with more opportunities for social and economic participation. However, caste-based discrimination persists in some areas, especially in rural India.
2. Gender Exclusion: Traditional gender roles, which confined women primarily to domestic roles, have been challenged by globalization. Increased access to global markets, education, and job opportunities has led to greater economic participation by women. Nonetheless, gender-based exclusion still exists, particularly in rural areas, where women may still face significant barriers in accessing education and employment.
3. Class-based Exclusion: Globalization has contributed to the marginalization of lower socio-economic classes. The shift towards a knowledge-based economy has left many with limited access to education and technological resources, thus reinforcing class-based exclusions. The poor often lack the skills required to take advantage of the economic opportunities created by globalization.

New Forms of Exclusion

1. Forced Displacement: Infrastructure projects and industrialization under globalization often result in the displacement of marginalized communities. These communities are uprooted in the name of development but are often left without adequate compensation or resettlement, further deepening their social exclusion (e.g., projects like SEZs).
2. Social and Digital Exclusion: The rise of digital technology has created a new form of exclusion. While online connectivity provides access to information, those without internet access are unable to benefit from this virtual space, exacerbating social inequalities. Digital exclusion is particularly prevalent in rural and low-income communities.
3. Fragmented Labor: The growth of multinational corporations and outsourcing has fragmented labor markets. This has weakened workers’ bargaining power and reduced their ability to organize effectively, contributing to the further marginalization of lower-income workers.

Conclusion

Globalization, while fostering economic growth, has created new forms of social exclusion, including digital exclusion and displacement. To address these challenges, India must implement inclusive policies that ensure equitable distribution of globalization’s benefits, particularly for marginalized communities.