Among the significant shifts that Shalini Mehta observes is the Modi government’s endeavour to prioritise growth that encompasses all sections of the society. The ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ mantra has been the bottom line for comprehensive policies and initiatives aimed at fostering social cohesion and equitable development. Through affirmative action and comprehensive social welfare programs, the government reiterates it remains committed to social justice.
India’s development model has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving to prioritise inclusive growth that benefits all segments of society. Central to this vision is the philosophy encapsulated in the mantra ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas’ (Collective Effort, Inclusive Development, Mutual Trust, and Everyone’s Participation).
This guiding principle has inspired a comprehensive array of government policies and initiatives aimed at fostering social cohesion and equitable development across the country.
At the heart of this inclusive agenda is a commitment to empowering marginalised communities. Recognising the historical disadvantages faced by certain groups, the government has implemented robust affirmative action programmes. These initiatives include reservations in educational institutions and public employment for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes.
By ensuring that these historically marginalised communities have access to educational and employment opportunities, these measures aim to level the playing field and rectify longstanding social and economic imbalances.
Affirmative action
Affirmative action in India is more than a policy; it is a commitment to social justice. By reserving seats in educational institutions, the government provides opportunities for higher education to those who might otherwise be excluded due to socio-economic barriers.
Similarly, reservations in public employment ensure that these communities have representation in government jobs, which can significantly impact their socio-economic status and mobility.
Furthermore, the government has launched numerous schemes and programmes designed to uplift these communities beyond just reservations. For instance, scholarships and financial aid are provided to students from marginalised backgrounds to support their education and reduce dropout rates.
Skill development programmes aim to enhance the employability of individuals from these communities, providing them with the necessary skills to compete in the job market.
The impact of these policies extends beyond individual beneficiaries. By promoting social equity and reducing disparities, these measures contribute to the overall development and stability of society.
When marginalised communities are empowered, they participate better in the economy, contribute to growth, and help build a more inclusive and cohesive nation.
The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (Save the Daughter, Educate the Daughter) campaign addresses gender disparities by promoting the education and empowerment of girls.
Welfare programmes
Additionally, these efforts are complemented by broader social welfare programmes aimed at ensuring that all citizens have access to basic necessities such as healthcare, housing, and financial services.
Initiatives like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) provide employment opportunities to rural households, improving their standard of living and reducing poverty.
The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana aims to increase financial inclusion by providing bank accounts to millions of unbanked households, enabling them to save money securely and access credit.
India’s development model now embraces a vision of inclusive growth, driven by the philosophy of collective effort, inclusive development, mutual trust, and everyone’s participation. Through affirmative action and comprehensive social welfare programmes, the government aims to empower marginalised communities, rectify historical imbalances, and foster a more equitable and cohesive society.
These efforts are not only about providing opportunities but also about building a foundation for sustainable and inclusive development that benefit all segments of society.
Significant strides have been made in expanding social welfare programmes, ensuring that the basic needs of the population are met. Schemes like the National Health Mission have created a vital safety net, improving access to healthcare, education, and financial inclusion.
Environment protection
Environmental sustainability is another key focus. Recognising the importance of long-term sustainable development, the government has launched initiatives such as the Swachh Bharat Mission, which has notably improved sanitation and waste management.
Additionally, India has set ambitious targets for renewable energy and has taken proactive measures to combat climate change, underscoring its commitment to green growth.
Alongside economic and social development, fostering social cohesion and inclusive governance has been a priority. The creation of commissions and councils dedicated to the welfare of women, minorities, and other marginalised groups ensures their voices are heard and their needs addressed.
Moreover, decentralisation and community participation in development planning empower local communities to shape their futures.
To measure the progress of these inclusive development efforts, the Indian government employs frameworks like the Inclusive Development Index (IDI) and the Social Progress Index (SPI). These tools provide comprehensive assessments of growth, inclusion, and sustainability, helping policymakers identify areas needing further improvement.
India’s journey towards inclusive development and social cohesion is ongoing, presenting both challenges and opportunities. However, the holistic approach combining economic growth, social welfare, environmental sustainability, and inclusive governance has laid a robust foundation for a more equitable and prosperous future for all citizens.
Livelihood security
MGNREGA and the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) are crucial in reducing poverty and unemployment. MGNREGA, by guaranteeing 100 days of employment per year to rural households, has enhanced livelihood security, reduced poverty by 32 per cent, and prevented 14 million people from falling below the poverty line. The programme has also narrowed the gender wage gap and empowered women economically. Additionally, it has created environmental benefits by supporting rural development.
PMEGP targets the non-farm sector, providing financial aid for micro-enterprises to reduce poverty and promote entrepreneurship. Despite their successes, these programmes face criticisms, such as low wage rates in MGNREGA, insufficient budget allocation, payment delays, poor asset quality, centralisation issues, and fraudulent practices. Addressing these challenges is essential to improve the effectiveness and credibility of these schemes.
Domestic security is another important issue that affects all aspects of development. India is addressing both traditional and non-traditional security issues such as border disputes and regional conflicts while tackling terrorism, cyber threats, climate change, and pandemics. Initiatives like the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the UN and commitments to the Paris Agreement highlight India’s multifaceted security approach.
Sabka saath, sabka vikas
The notion of collective effort emphasises the importance of unity and collaboration among various sectors of society, including the government, private sector, and civil society. This approach is evident in the push for cooperative federalism, where states and the central government work together to implement policies that are tailored to regional needs.
Inclusive development ensures that the benefits of economic growth reach all sections of society, particularly the marginalised and disadvantaged. Initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) aim to promote financial inclusion by providing bank accounts to millions of unbanked citizens, thereby integrating them into the formal economy. Similarly, the Ayushman Bharat scheme seeks to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to the poor, significantly enhancing their quality of life.
Building mutual trust involves creating a transparent and accountable governance framework that instils confidence among citizens and investors. The introduction of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) has streamlined the resolution of corporate insolvencies, thus fostering a more reliable business environment. Additionally, the Digital India initiative has improved governmental transparency and efficiency by leveraging technology to deliver services and information more effectively to the public.
The implementation of these guiding principles is reflected in a wide range of government policies and programmes. For example, the ‘Make in India’ initiative aims to transform India into a global manufacturing hub, thereby creating job opportunities and boosting economic growth. The ‘Smart Cities Mission’ focuses on urban renewal and retrofitting, with the objective of creating sustainable and inclusive urban spaces.