Discovering India

After watching Discovery Channels' "The other side of outsourcing" for the second time, my curiosity is to see how India has grown since Tom Friedman's visit in 2005. Outsourcing has effected the middle class in the United States as much as it has affected India's middle class. It has empowered the million of Indian citizens boosting the Indian economy. In addition, the opportunity provided by these multi-national companies has given young India an optimistic view to become a superpower.

One of the most interesting topics that Friedman spoke about was families whose traditions may be affected due to globalization. Friedman mentions the clash between new world economy and old world societies. In the new world economy former third world countries are now becoming essential parts of the global economy creating new job markets in these countries that never existed before. While the old world society is full of traditions and rituals that may change due to influence from other cultures. The youth in India who work at companies like Infosys earn a consistent salary and gain financial independence affecting family life and traditional rituals. This financial independence has empowered the youth to live a different life .The difference between traditional and contemporary life in India will continue be an issue between the older and younger generations in India.

India's substantial population creates a competitive advantage. The multi-national companies who have invested in this nation have seen great turn out. It has not only cut down their labor cost but it has also provided a great advantage for these companies because only the best talent is chosen out of millions of applicants. Friedman interviewed a supervisor and she explains that these young workers have disposable income which empowers them in their purchasing habits. For instance, an example given by an RSS board member who mentions Valentine's Day as an example of changes due to Globalization. Marketers look to gain consumers by advertising, and this is what is happening in India. Young Indians are being influenced by the media changing their outlook on the world.

As much as India has developed and grown in the new century, there are still many rural areas who have not seen the impact of globalization. There is a clash between the traditional and contemporary way of life. This shows the great potential that this nation has. The impact that this country may possibly have in the world remains to be seen.