Peer pressure and post liberalization era

I wonder sometimes - what if I were to born somewhere in 50's ? I would have reached my 20's by 1970's. At that point in time, India was at the height of socialism. Most of the people did not get the jobs; even if one managed to get one - that was obviously the Govt. job- that was even obviously mean paid. In those days, every one was 'alike'- in terms of getting opportunity and capitalizing it- and hence, there was less peer pressure.

Post liberalization, Indian economy started accommodating people in private sector with never dreamt pay packages. Especially in southern states, it was a bachelor's degree that required to get one descent job. In late 90's, people simply made their career in outsourcing industry with one degree at their disposal.

But, there is one negative social impact of this liberalized era that makes me to think from quite some time-Peer pressure. Now, every parent wants their child to learn English. And after graduation, wanted him or her to start earning. With cheap and easy credit, erstwhile luxury has become necessary. Thus, we see heavy peer pressure to earn, save, and have some 'necessary' things like home, car etc. which once considered to be luxury within Indian psyche.

I think this is unnecessary and uncalled for. Now, we have every opportunity to do what we think we are best at. We get much better education, job, money to fund the ideas, what not. But, still social pressure is huge to earn early and get 'settled' soon! This is more evident in those families who have just moved to middle class post liberalization. There anxiety or even I would rather say- deep rooted fear of moving again to lesser class in social ladder- make them to put heavy peer pressure on their children.

I see this is going to be normal phenomenon for quite sometime- say another 10 years. Hopefully, after this initial bad period, every one can be relieved off this peer pressure and can be allowed to do what she thinks fit and necessary.