The article discusses the rivalry between two sectors of retail trade: the unorganized small traders, referred to as the 'Former', and the organized mall culture known as the 'Latter'. This competition is characterized by a struggle for the same customer base, with the unorganized sector having a long-standing history, while the organized sector has rapidly grown in recent decades due to globalization. The author likens this rivalry to the dynamic of a "lamp against a whirlwind," highlighting the challenges faced by the weaker group. The future of this rivalry may result in either the "survival of the fittest," as per Darwin's theory, or a potential coexistence between the two sectors. While the organized retail sector continues to expand, prompting social activists like Medha Patkar to argue against the mall culture due to its detrimental impact on local traders, a report by ICRIER suggests that both sectors can coexist. However, the author warns that the opinions gathered in such studies may not represent the views of the entire population, emphasizing the need for thorough and representative research.

by Valibhai Musa in English Magazine

Writen by Valibhai Musa

Category Magazine