New Social Movements (NSMs) represent a significant shift from traditional social movements, particularly those of the industrial era that were primarily class-based and focused on economic redistribution or state power. What is 'new' about NSMs lies in their objectives, organizational structures, participants, and tactics, often reflecting post-industrial and post-materialist values.

Key Characteristics of NSMs:

1. Focus on Identity and Quality of Life: Unlike old movements centered on class, NSMs often revolve around issues of identity (gender, race, ethnicity, sexuality), human rights, environmental protection, peace, and cultural recognition. They seek to transform cultural codes and values rather than just economic or political structures.
2. Decentralized and Networked Structures: NSMs tend to be less hierarchical and more decentralized, often operating through informal networks, coalitions, and grassroots initiatives. This allows for greater flexibility and adaptability.
3. Non-Party Political: While they aim to influence policy, NSMs typically operate outside traditional political parties, often critiquing the state and established political institutions.
4. Global Scope: Many NSMs have transnational linkages, addressing issues that transcend national borders, such as climate change, human rights, or global justice.
5. Diverse Tactics: They employ a wide range of tactics, including protests, advocacy, public awareness campaigns, direct action, and increasingly, digital activism through social media.

New Social Movements in India: India, with its vast diversity and complex socio-political landscape, has been a fertile ground for NSMs. The 'newness' in the Indian context can be understood by contrasting them with earlier movements like the anti-colonial struggle, peasant movements, or trade union movements.

1. Environmental Movements: A prominent example is the Chipko Movement (1970s), where rural women hugged trees to prevent logging, highlighting ecological concerns and the rights of local communities. The Narmada Bachao Andolan (1980s onwards) protested large dam projects, raising issues of displacement, environmental degradation, and sustainable development. These movements brought environmental justice and the rights of indigenous communities to the forefront.
2. Women's Movements: While women's activism has a long history, NSMs saw a shift from welfare-oriented approaches to demanding gender equality, challenging patriarchy, and addressing issues like violence against women, reproductive rights, and political representation. The anti-rape movements and campaigns against domestic violence are notable examples.
3. Dalit and Adivasi Rights Movements: These movements, while having historical roots, gained new momentum by asserting identity, demanding dignity, and challenging caste-based discrimination and structural inequalities. They moved beyond mere economic demands to cultural and political recognition.
4. Human Rights Movements: Groups advocating for civil liberties, against state repression, and for the rights of marginalized communities (e.g., prisoners, victims of communal violence) emerged strongly.
5. LGBTQ+ Rights Movements: These movements have challenged traditional norms around sexuality and gender identity, advocating for legal recognition, social acceptance, and an end to discrimination.
6. Anti-Corruption Movements: The India Against Corruption (IAC) movement (early 2010s) exemplified an NSM, mobilizing large numbers of urban middle-class citizens through non-party political means, demanding transparency and accountability in governance.

In India, NSMs often intersect with older forms of mobilization, but their distinct focus on identity, culture, environment, and human rights, coupled with their decentralized and often transnational character, marks them as 'new.' They have broadened the scope of political action beyond electoral politics, bringing diverse voices and issues into the public sphere and challenging established power structures.