17

For the last several years, we have been witnessing discourses on globalisation, global changes, and their effects upon individuals, societies, and states. Seminars, symposiums and debates are being organised continuously on subjects related to globalisation and global changes. It is essential that the new dimensions of the process of globalisation in relation to its effect upon India and the world are discussed and analysed.

Globalisation and Global Change

Globalisation, which can be translated to Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, is derived from the word globe –Vishwa. It is proximate to the words Vishwavyapi, Sarvadeshik, Sarvabhaum or universalism, which are broad concepts. Moreover, they deal with several continuing processes. By nature, any process is dynamic. In dynamism, changes are inevitable. Hence, it will not be inappropriate to acknowledge the similarity between globalisation and global changes.

Inevitability of Change

Change is inevitable and is essential at all levels and in all walks of life. It is an endless process.

We are aware that along with inventions in science, industrialisation brought about unprecedented changes in social, political and economic spheres all over the world.

Two extraordinary political events of the twentieth century can be cited here. First, the communist government, which was formed for the first time under the leadership of Vladimir Ilyich Lenin (1870-1924) in Russia, which besides attracting the attention of the world affected all walks of life – social, political and economic globally. Second, British colonialism, which was thrown away under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi in India to pave the way for Swarajya and a democratic form of government in 1947, leaving a profound impact on people across the world.

In brief, we can talk with certainty about the inevitability of change, which is essential at all levels and in all walks of life. It is a rule. Emphasising the reality of Law of Change, two thousand five hundred years ago Gautama Buddha had said, “Nothing is beyond the process of Law of Change. It is eternal. For nothing can be the exception to it.”

Development and Dimension

After the security of existence it is the continuous process of development, which leads man towards achieving his goal in life. In its constant process, development reaches various dimensions, thus, widening the scope of co-operation and collaboration.

Now, the world looks like a family. Despite the differences of opinion, diversities of faiths and disparities in methods of working, people all around the world are coming nearer to each other. Distance has become less. Physical distance is replaced by virtual distance. At this stage, moving forward in unison has become a necessity, hence bringing the ancient Indian slogan Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam to the fore. This process will not stop. Despite the momentary obstacles or hindrances, interdependence will increase and co-operation among people will grow. Moreover, limitations will decrease at all levels and in all walks of life, and boundaries among the nations will diminish.

India and Global Change

India’s ancient civilisation and composite and harmonious culture are living examples of the country’s pace towards the process of globalisation and global change. Right from the era of the Indus Valley Civilisation, India has been trading with almost all countries of South and South East Asia, besides having business with countries like Bahrain, Syria, Iraq, Egypt and Greece. Hinduism and Buddhism had also spread across the world. Similarly, teachings of almost all major religious communities of the world reached India from time-to-time and became indivisible part of life of its people. As known to all, people like Huien Tsang, I-Tsing, Fah-Hian and Meghasthenes reached India in ancient times to study the life of Indians and to explore its different schools of thought. The general approach of Indians or the nature of its culture is evolutionary.

India’s Responsibility

India has always played an important role in the process of globalisation. Its importance in the current global changes is worth mentioning. Its responsibility lies in moving towards the right direction and becoming welfaristic. Furthermore, India is the largest democracy of the world, full of diversities. From an economic point of view too, it is emerging as a super power. Its annual economic growth rate is above 7%. It is a ray of hope not only for poor or developing nations, but also for the developed countries of the world as it is working as a bridge between the two.

Moreover, due to its constantly increasing strength and development in the field of science and communication technology, India has emerged as a leading political power at the global level.