How do pressure groups influence Indian political process? Do you agree with this view that informal pressure groups have emerged as more powerful than formal pressure groups in recent years? (Answer in 150 words)

Pressure groups seek policy influence without directly seeking governmental office. They connect organised interests and public authority in a plural democracy.

• They lobby legislators and ministries, submit memoranda, provide expertise and shape committee consultations.
• Trade unions, farmer bodies, business associations and professional groups use bargaining, litigation, media and collective action.
• They frame issues through research, campaigns and election-time endorsements.

Informal networks, social movements, online communities and identity-based mobilisations can act faster, attract attention and bypass gatekeepers. Yet formal groups possess expertise, resources, continuity and institutional access. Informal influence is therefore more visible in episodic agenda-setting, not uniformly more powerful. Transparency in lobbying, disclosure of funding, consultation records and protection of peaceful participation can make influence accountable.

Pluralism; lobbying; civil society; collective action; social movements; participatory democracy.