Correct answer: (c) G. S. Ghurye
Explanation
- A
M. N. Srinivas
M. N. Srinivas claims that the idea of rurbanization was discussed, but his prominent sociological works focus on concepts like Sanskritization, Westernization, and the dominant caste in Indian villages. Therefore, this option is not the correct choice for the originator of this specific term.
- B
Yogendra Singh
Yogendra Singh claims the concept through his extensive studies on modernization of Indian tradition, yet he is not the sociologist who originally elaborated the specific framework of rurbanization. Thus, this option stands incorrect.
- C
G. S. Ghurye
G. S. Ghurye is the correct choice because he extensively elaborated the concept of 'rurbanization' in Indian sociology, analyzing how rural and urban elements blend as towns grow and villages transform through migration and cultural diffusion. As the pioneer who thoroughly detailed this socio-cultural phenomenon in his academic treatises, this option forms the official key.
- D
H. Spencer
H. Spencer claims the evolutionary perspective, but his sociological framework deals with social Darwinism and general societal evolution rather than the specific Indian rural-urban continuum known as rurbanization. Hence, this option is incorrect.
Summary. Official key is (c) because renowned Indian sociologist G. S. Ghurye meticulously detailed the concept of rurbanization, examining the interpenetration of rural and urban characteristics. Other sociologists like M. N. Srinivas and Yogendra Singh worked extensively on modernization and Sanskritization but did not elaborate this precise framework. Students often confuse Srinivas's village studies with Ghurye's urban-rural continuum theories. Careful reading of Indian sociological literature clarifies Ghurye as the originator of this specific terminology. Thus, option (c) remains the only valid answer.