Regionalism as a Unifying Force

Regionalism refers to the assertion of regional, linguistic or ethnic identities by a group of people. In India, it is commonly observed among groups that identify more with their region or state rather than the state. Regionalism has an adverse effect on uniting the people of the nation as one. The regional identities compete with the national identities for supremacy. When the regional identities prevail, demands for secession or formation of new states are raised.

However, in instances where regionalism isn’t extreme or too radical, it could have a good influence on society. Regionalism can be attributed as one of the reasons for the formation of Telangana, however, even accepting that formation of new states has its own risks, it can also better address the grievances of the people in that region. If people did not identify with their regional grouping, their regional traditions, practices and customs would die out. In a country of different ethnicities, religions, languages, the regional identity is as important as the national one. Thus, a measure of regionalism can be good for a diverse yet united society like India.