'सचेत उपभोग' से 'भौतिकवादी उपभोग' में संक्रमण (परिवर्तन) नगरीय क्षेत्र में परिवारीय संरचना और गतिविधियों को प्रभावित कर रहा है? (10 अंक) How is the transition from 'conscious consumption' to 'compulsive consumption' impacting family structure and dynamics in urban areas? (10 marks)

Compulsive consumption or materialism is leading to accumulation of material things that do not significantly lead to better life yet consumed.

This transition from conscious to compulsive is due to:-

i) Increasing consumerism brought by cheap products, increased income and industrial revolution.

ii) Social media – 'fake life' tempting people to buy things compulsively.

iii) Lack or downgrading of traditional values & conscious consumption in the society.

This is impacting family structure and dynamics in the following ways:-

i) Increased focus on earning money leading to declining family time.

ii) Nuclear families – movement from rural to urban areas for better income.

iii) Declining fertility rate. (ⓒ Japan.)

iv) Increase in mental health – emotions like anger, frustration → impacting families.

Steps taken by the government:

← LIFE movement – conscious consumption promoted

← Khelo India and vandantum initiatives for physical and mental health.

← Mullets initiative – consuming healthier foods

ii) Deteriorating family bonds due to overly focus on material things.

ii) Nuclear families – movement from rural to urban areas for better income.

iv) Declining fertility rate. (ⓒ Japan.)

v) Increase in mental health – emotions like anger, frustration → impacting families.

Steps taken by the government:

← LIFE movement – conscious consumption promoted

← Khelo India and vandantum initiatives for physical and mental health.

← Mullets initiative – consuming healthier foods

Other steps that can be taken by society:

← Introspection through community meetings

← Following tradition wisdom of consciousness and mindfulness

← Practicing of yoga and meditation

Compulsive consumption along with impacting the environment also leads to deterioration of family structure. Following a conscious consumption approach through mindfulness will help.

— Aditya Agarwal