Social Movements, State and Civil Society in India: Perspectives from the Global South

Abstract (English)

Abstract

Social movements are one of the major forms of collective behaviour. In the last six decades, social movement studies have attracted the attention of many sociologists, political scientists, and social anthropologists in the global south. It shows that something is wrong with some people. Yes, it is true that when something goes wrong with society or some section of the community, people try to change it through collective protest. The question is, why do people join the various types of social movements?

The state and its machinery have failed to deliver on their promises, resulting in strong disenchantment with the system. The development policy pursued by the state has led to development for a select few and impoverishment for many. The state’s initiatives have caused the annihilation of individuals through displacement, loss of livelihood, and tampering with their culture.

It will focus on the Global South, exploring various types of social movements in that region. Through case studies, diverse issues related to social, political, and economic justice, as well as sustainable development, will be examined and discussed in terms of how civil society actors in these countries have sought to address these challenges through collective action.