Indian Geography

Economic Nationalism is an ideology that emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and advancing the national economy. It advocates for policies that prioritize the interests of domestic industries over global market forces. The primary objective of economic nationalism is to achieve greater economic independence and minimize reliance on foreign nations.

Key characteristics of Economic Nationalism include:

• Protectionist measures, such as tariffs and import restrictions, to protect domestic industries from foreign competition.
• Promotion of local production and the growth of industries deemed essential for national security and economic prosperity.
• Restrictions on foreign ownership of key industries and resources, ensuring national control over critical assets.

Economic Nationalism has played a significant role throughout history, particularly during periods of economic development and crisis. This ideology is often linked with populist movements and has been used to promote policies aimed at reducing the influence of multinational corporations and foreign governments. In the contemporary world, it is frequently viewed as a response to globalization and free trade.

The Prarthana Samaj, or ”Prayer Society,” was a reformist religious and social movement established in 1867 by Dr. Atmaram Pandurang and Keshab Chunder Sen in Bombay (now Mumbai). The movement’s primary goal was to reform Hindu society by promoting social progress and challenging the rigidities of traditional practices.

Key Features of Prarthana Samaj:

• Religious Reform: The Prarthana Samaj opposed idol worship and advocated for the worship of a single supreme God. It promoted a more rational and spiritual approach to worship, in line with the broader 19th-century reformist ideas.
• Social Reform: The Samaj focused on a range of social reforms, including the advocacy for women’s rights, education for women, and the abolition of practices like child marriage and Sati.
• Impact on Social Movements: The Prarthana Samaj was influential in inspiring later movements, such as the Brahmo Samaj and the Arya Samaj, contributing significantly to the social and political transformation of colonial India.

While the Prarthana Samaj’s focus was on religious reform, it also worked toward improving the socio-economic conditions of Indian society by addressing issues such as caste discrimination, the dowry system, and illiteracy.