Inclusive growth and social development in India

Abstract

Inclusive growth is a concept that advances equitable opportunities for economic participants during economic growth with benefits incurred by every section of society. Economic growth with equality and social justice has always been the prime objective of the development paradigm in India. Alleviation of poverty and unemployment, therefore, has been accorded top priority in rural development programmes since the inception of the planning era. Inclusive development is viewed in terms of economic and social inclusion reflected in poverty reduction, better health outcomes, increased access to education and improved access to basic amenities such as electricity, drinking water, sanitation, transport, banking facilities, etc. The first objective of the study is to understand the elements of inclusive growth in India. The second objective of the study is to understand the pattern of the economic growth in India. The third objective of the study is to understand the inclusive growth and social development in India. The results show that the impact of increase in GDP has positive impact on the quality of life of the people as the social indicators. The incidence of poverty was higher among STs, followed by SCs, compared to others. The proportion of unemployment in labour force with higher education levels is also high.