Inclusive Development

General Studies Paper -3

Context: President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the importance of inclusive development for all regions, including those affected by Maoist extremism in Chhattisgarh.

About

• She stressed the need to balance modern development with environmental protection and the inclusion of all sections of society in the development process.
• Naxalism or Left Wing Extremism (LWE) is one of the major challenges to India’s internal security.
• Naxalites seek to overthrow the State through violent means.
• Naxal affected areas in India are known as the ‘Red Corridor’.
• The States of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Orissa and Bihar are considered severely affected.
• She emphasized the “saturation approach” to ensure that no citizen is left behind in India’s development journey.

What is Inclusive Development?

• Inclusive Development refers to a development approach that ensures all segments of society have equal access to opportunities, resources, and benefits of economic, social, and political progress.
• It focuses on reducing inequality and addressing the needs of diverse populations.
• The Indian model of inclusive growth, viewed from a development economics perspective, has three pillars: Market economics, Empowerment, and Pragmatism.
• India ranked 62nd out of 74 emerging economies in the World Economic Forums’ Inclusive Development Index (IDI), last released in 2018.
• The three key approaches for inclusive development include:
  • Good governance (progressive politics, effective management and successful engagement in the global economy;
  • Structural transformation, (economic, social and demographic), and;
  • Multi-pronged policy and programme mix (macroeconomic policies, sound institutions, public-private sector development, effective economic policy management).

Identified Segments for Inclusive Development

• Tribal and Rural Communities: Assimilation of communities in society; educating at grassroot level; electricity, network connectivity; connectivity through roads; pucca houses; introduction to new basic technologies etc.
• Physically Disabled: Providing facilities such as wheelchairs and audio-visual aids; installation of ramps and tactical paths for easy accessibility; training of individuals on interacting with differently abled; skilling specially-abled, etc.
• Streamlining Unbanked Section: Awareness should be provided related to the importance of bank accounts in rural and tribal areas, financial literacy, mobile banking etc.
• Women: Pre- and post-pregnancy care, healthcare, education, childcare, skill-development, opportunities for financial improvement etc.

Need for Inclusive Development in India

• Addressing Inequality: India has significant disparities in income, education, healthcare, and living standards, particularly between urban and rural areas, and among different social groups.
• Empowering Marginalized Communities: Large sections of society, including tribal communities, women, and the differently-abled, remain excluded from mainstream development and opportunities.
• Promoting Social Justice: Inclusive development ensures that every citizen, regardless of their background, has access to the benefits of growth, promoting fairness and reducing social tensions.
• Economic Growth: India can unlock the full potential of its population, leading to more sustainable and equitable economic growth.
• Global Competitiveness: A more inclusive society leads to a more productive, skilled, and innovative workforce, enhancing India’s global competitiveness.
• Sustainable Development: It aligns with the goal of long-term, sustainable growth, considering the needs of all sections of society, including future generations.

Constitutional Framework for Inclusive Development

• Fundamental Rights (Part III):
  • Equality Before Law (Article 14): Guarantees equality for all citizens.
  • Prohibition of Discrimination (Article 15): Ensures no discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
  • Equality of Opportunity (Article 16): Ensures equal opportunities in public employment.
  • Right to Education (Article 21A): Guarantees free education for children aged 6 to 14.
  • Protection of Minorities (Articles 29 & 30): Safeguards the cultural and educational rights of minorities.
• Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV):
  • Social Justice (Article 38): Promotes the welfare of the people, focusing on justice and reducing inequalities.
  • Promotion of Weaker Sections (Article 46): Aims to protect and promote the interests of SCs, STs, and OBCs.
  • Reservation and Affirmative Action: Articles 15(4) and 16(4) allow for affirmative action, such as reservations in education and employment for SCs, STs, and OBCs.
  • Panchayats and Local Governance (Part IX): Article 243N strengthens local self-governance, ensuring the participation of marginalized communities.
  • Legal Protection for Vulnerable Groups: Laws like the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 protect disadvantaged communities from discrimination and violence.
  • Judicial Oversight: The Supreme Court and High Courts ensure that policies align with the constitutional values of equality and justice.

Conclusion

• There are many Government initiatives focused on providing opportunities, resources, and social security for marginalized communities, ensuring broad-based growth and well-being.