(a) Human Development Index (HDI)
Introduction
The Human Development Index (HDI) is a global measure used to assess a country’s overall development by evaluating three key dimensions: health, education, and standard of living. It was introduced by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 1990 as part of the Human Development Report (HDR) to shift focus from economic growth alone to human well-being.
1. Key Components of HDI
The HDI considers three broad indicators:
- Health (Life Expectancy at Birth)
- Measures the average number of years a person is expected to live.
- Education (Mean and Expected Years of Schooling)
- Assesses the average education level of citizens.
- Standard of Living (Gross National Income per Capita)
- Evaluates income and purchasing power adjusted for price variations.
2. HDI Classification and Rankings
- Countries are ranked based on HDI scores and classified as:
- Very High Human Development (e.g., Norway, Switzerland).
- High Human Development (e.g., China, Russia).
- Medium Human Development (e.g., India, Bangladesh).
- Low Human Development (e.g., Chad, Niger).
3. India’s HDI Performance
- India’s HDI rank (2023): Around 132 out of 191 countries.
- Challenges: Inequality, gender disparity, healthcare access, and unemployment.
4. Significance and Criticism of HDI
- Significance: A comprehensive measure that highlights development beyond GDP.
- Criticism: Ignores factors like inequality, environmental sustainability, and political freedom.
Despite limitations, HDI remains a key indicator in shaping global development policies and priorities.
(b) New Social Movements (NSMs)
Introduction
New Social Movements (NSMs) refer to post-1960s movements that focus on issues beyond class struggle, including environmental protection, human rights, gender equality, and cultural identity. Unlike traditional movements led by trade unions and workers, NSMs are more decentralized, non-hierarchical, and ideology-driven.
1. Key Characteristics of NSMs
- Identity-Based Politics: NSMs focus on women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, tribal identity, and environmental justice.
- Non-Violent and Decentralized: Many movements use peaceful protests, social media campaigns, and public awareness instead of armed struggle.
- Influence of Globalization: NSMs operate beyond national boundaries, engaging in international advocacy and networking.
2. Examples of NSMs in India
- Chipko Movement (1973) – Aimed at preventing deforestation in the Himalayan region through tree-hugging protests.
- Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) – Opposed displacement caused by large dam projects on the Narmada River.
- LGBTQ+ Rights Movement – Led to the decriminalization of Section 377 in 2018, granting equal rights to LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Feminist Movements – Advocated for laws against domestic violence, sexual harassment, and gender discrimination.
3. Difference Between Old and New Social Movements
| Aspect | Old Social Movements | New Social Movements |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Class-based (workers, peasants) | Identity-based (gender, environment, rights) |
| Methods | Strikes, political mobilization | Protests, social media activism |
| Leadership | Centralized | Decentralized |
4. Impact of NSMs
- NSMs have influenced government policies, laws, and public discourse.
- They highlight grassroots participation and democratic activism.
- However, they face challenges due to lack of political backing and institutional barriers.
NSMs have transformed the way activism functions in modern India, emphasizing human rights, environmental sustainability, and inclusive democracy.
Conclusion
Both HDI and NSMs are critical in understanding global development and social change. While HDI measures human progress, NSMs drive activism for social justice. The combination of policy reforms and grassroots mobilization remains essential for ensuring sustainable development and human rights protection in India and globally.
For More Political Science Assignment Questions, Visit:
For more political science assignment questions visit
To search other questions, visit
To see the assignment questions, visit