Topic: urbanization, their problems and their remedies.
Q1. The erosion of traditional social institutions has reshaped the nature of belonging in cities. Analyse the statement. Discuss emerging alternatives to conventional community structures. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: IE
Why the question
Urbanisation and migration are weakening inherited social institutions such as family, caste, and neighbourhood, raising concerns about loneliness, social fragmentation, and the sustainability of urban social cohesion.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires analysis of how the decline of traditional social institutions has altered the meaning of belonging in urban settings and an examination of the new forms of community that are replacing or supplementing conventional social structures.
Structure of the Answer
Introduction
Briefly contextualise urbanisation and social change in Indian cities and introduce the idea of shifting modes of belonging beyond traditional institutions.Body
- Analyse the impact of erosion of family, neighbourhood, caste, and religious institutions on urban belonging.
- Discuss emerging alternatives such as voluntary associations, digital communities, workplace networks, and civic engagement as new forms of social bonding.
Conclusion
Conclude by highlighting the need to strengthen inclusive and sustainable forms of urban community to address social isolation and maintain social cohesion.
