Question

Dependency Theory discourse categorises countries as Centre (Core), Periphery and Semi- periphery, according to the level of their economic development or industrialisation.

In the same vein, the United nations (UN) classifies countries as developed, developing, newly industrialised or developed, and countries in transition.

The World Bank classifies countries according to their Gross National Income (GNI) per capita; Low-income, Lower-Middle income, Upper-Middle income and High-income.

Discuss the difference between Developed and Developing countries from the three perspectives of Dependency Theorists, The UN and the World Bank, giving appropriate examples in each case.

Answer 1

I will give the example of Goa and how its culture has been preserved in spite of influx of huge number of tourists both domestic and International. In 2017-18 season, Goa received nearly 5.5 mn tourists of which 85% were domestic and 15% were International. Goa is famous for its beaches, night parties and laid back mood. Goa was a Portuguese colony which became part of Indian Nation in 1961. There was a referendum held in 1967 to decide whether Goa will merge with Maharashtra State or become a Union Territory. It decided on becoming a separate Union Territory. Subsequently it became a full-fledged state in 1987.

Goa has a multicultural background on account of it having been ruled by Portuguese and visited by many foreigners including Russians some of whom have settled in Morjim. The Goan architecture is heavily influenced by Portuguese designs. The main language spoken is Konkani and fish curry is the main dish which is part of their culture. Taking a cue from David Weaver on sustainable tourism and how it has influenced Goa:

Advocacy: When Goa was amalgamated in the Indian Union then there was lot of emphasis to encourage tourism to Goa so that there was cross-cultural bonding and people could understand each other better. This continued till 1980’s.

Cautionary: This happened in 1980’s when there was uprising for full statehood and giving Goa its own recognition in terms of language, cuisine, attire and culture. Local residents complained that Goa was losing its culture of pristine peace, harmony and casual way of life to high rise hotels, western way of life and money-mindedness due to rising socio economic conditions due to rise in tourism. Large scale mining was happening to build infrastructure and that was destroying   the beauty of the place.

Adaptancy: Several initiatives were taken to preserve the beauty of Goa beaches. Rampant construction activity was halted. Mining activity was halted by the Supreme Court. Alternative tourism in terms of water sports, balloon ride, skydiving, scuba diving was encouraged to take the pressure off mass tourist destinations. New beaches were advertised to divert intensity of tourists to new places. Casinos were allowed on boats and ships to give alternate rush to tourists. More number of shacks and restaurants were opened to cater to wider audience.

Knowledge: In early 2010 Courses in tourism have started being taught in Goa and elsewhere which has led people to appreciate sustainable tourism better. Drinking has been prohibited openly on the beaches. Women safety has been given special attention. The garbage strewn on beaches has gone down and garbage bags have been placed everywhere. People are being penalized for parking in no parking places. Drug abuse which was rampant earlier in parties has been arrested and knowledge spread about its bad implications. Sustainable means of disposing trash is being promoted and sign boards to guide new tourists regarding the same is present everywhere. Hygiene factors are being considered in planning of shacks and availability of ladies toilet is a must.