Critically examine the effect of globalisation on the aged population in India
UPSC Mains Syllabus topic
Effects of Globalization on Indian society.
Why was this question asked?
Critically examine the effect of globalisation on the aged population in India
Introduction
Globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness of economies, societies, and cultures worldwide, and its impact on the aged population in India has been significant.
Body
Positive effects of Globalisation
1. Improved healthcare and medical facilities: Globalization has brought about advancements in medical technologies and facilities, resulting in better healthcare access for the elderly population in India.
2. Higher income opportunities and standard of living: Globalization has opened up new job opportunities, increased economic growth and improved the standard of living for the elderly population in India.
3. Greater connectivity and access to information: Globalization has led to the proliferation of communication technologies, such as the internet, which allows the elderly population to stay connected with their loved ones and access information more easily.
4. Exposure to different cultures and ideas: Globalization has facilitated the exchange of ideas and cultures, allowing the elderly population in India to broaden their horizons and learn about new perspectives.
5. Improved infrastructure and transportation options: Globalization has led to the development of better infrastructure and transportation options, making it easier for the elderly population to travel and access essential services.
6. Greater access to technology and communication: Globalization has made technology and communication more accessible, allowing the elderly population to stay connected with family and friends, and access important services like healthcare and banking.
7. Increased social support networks and community involvement: Globalization has facilitated the growth of social support networks, allowing the elderly population to connect with others and engage in community activities.
8. Improved awareness of elderly rights and issues: Globalization has increased awareness about the rights and issues faced by the elderly population in India, resulting in the development of policies and programs to better support this demographic group.
Unwanted effects of globalisation on the aged population in India:
1. Young generation in search of employment opportunity and better living standard leave their aged parents alone and move to another city or country. This results in isolation, rejection and loneliness of elderly; leads to psychological distress, unwantedness, anxiety and crime against older people.
2. Globalization has given rise to Information Technology.Older population are not or less proficient in technology or sometimes cannot embrace change. Thus, being alone their dayto-day works like e-banking, transactions, purchasing, communication, ticket booking, etc. becomes challenging. This gives feeling of exclusion.
3. Globalization has introduced advanced medical technologies. But in context of India, 80% of Indian population lives in village and cost of medical care is also very high which is not affordable for them.
4. Globalization has not only lead to faster growth but faster inflation also. Older population find their savings eaten away by inflation. Thus, they are left with no or scanty of money.
5. After retirement, the third age people unable to find clear role and this realization leads to loss of status, loneliness and worthlessness. Problem increases when they have to economically depend on their children.
6. Woman’s weaker property rights also give chance to family members to exploit old women and to place them in old age homes.
Conclusion
As India continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of globalization, it is important to ensure that the needs and rights of the elderly population are prioritized, and that policies and programs are in place to support this demographic group. With continued attention and support, India’s aging population can thrive in a rapidly changing world.
For More Content