Ethics Theory, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q. 4. “Despite impressive economic growth, human development in India remains uneven and inadequate. Critically examine the reasons behind this mismatch and suggest measures to bridge the gap.” (250 words, 15 marks)
Introduction
India’s GDP grew at a robust rate of 7.6% in 2023–24, making it one of the world’s fastest growing economies. However, its Human Development Index (HDI) ranking remains low at 134 (UNDP 2023), revealing deep gaps in health, education, and equity. Body
Causes Behind the Mismatch
- Unequal Distribution of Growth: Economic benefits are concentrated in urban and industrial areas, leaving rural and tribal regions behind. Example: States like Kerala fare much better on HDI than states like Bihar or Jharkhand.
- Jobless Growth: Economic expansion has not translated into proportional employment, especially in the formal sector. Example: PLFS (2023–24) shows youth unemployment in urban areas above 15%, despite GDP growth.
- Underinvestment in Social Sectors: Public spending on health and education remains below global benchmarks. Example: India spends only around 2.1% of GDP on health and 2.9% on education (Economic Survey 2023–24).
- Regional and Gender Disparities: Access to health, education, and income opportunities varies significantly by region and gender. Example: NFHS-5 highlights poor female labour force participation and child nutrition in backward states.
- Weak Governance and Implementation: Leakages, inefficiencies, and corruption often dilute the impact of welfare schemes. Example: Delay in implementation of National Education Policy (NEP) reforms in several states.
- Environmental and Climate Stresses: Climate change and pollution affect poor communities the most, reversing human development gains. Example: Heatwaves and droughts in central India have impacted livelihoods and health indicators.
Measures to Bridge the Gap
- Boost Public Investment in Social Infrastructure: Increase allocations for health, education, and nutrition through targeted schemes.
Recommendation: Follow WHO norms of 5% GDP for health and UNESCO’s 6% for education.
- Promote Inclusive Economic Policies: Encourage labour-intensive and rural industries to spread growth benefits widely.
Recommendation: Support MSMEs and expand schemes like SVANidhi and PMEGP.
3. Strengthen Decentralised Governance: Empower Panchayats and Urban Local Bodies for better implementation of welfare programmes.
Recommendation: Use local data for need-based planning and monitoring.
- Bridge Regional and Social Gaps: Focus on backward districts through Aspirational Districts Programme and gender-sensitive budgeting.
Recommendation: Expand scholarships, maternity benefits, and nutrition schemes for vulnerable groups.
- Skill Development and Job Creation: Align skill training with market needs and boost employment in health, education, and green sectors.
Recommendation: Strengthen PMKVY and expand public sector recruitment in underserved areas.
- Monitor and Evaluate Human Development Indicators: Create robust feedback loops and social audits to measure impact regularly.
Recommendation: Use HDI and MPI (Multidimensional Poverty Index) at the district level for planning.
Conclusion
India’s economic growth must translate into meaningful improvements in people’s lives. As per UNDP, bridging this gap requires prioritising inclusive development, investing in people, and empowering local governance to deliver last-mile justice and prosperity.
