Question.
"Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach." Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer.
(UPSC 2023 General Studies Paper 2 (Main) Exam, Answer in 150 words)
Answer.
Constitutional provisions for the welfare of vulnerable communities are seen in the Preamble ( Social justice and Equal opportunities), Fundamental Rights (Articles 15 and 16), and Directive Principle of the State Policy( Concept of the welfare state; Article 38, 39A, 41, 42, and 43) in the constitution.
These constitutional provisions promote inclusion and rectification of historical social-economic disparities.
The statement "Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach.", Neither I have completely agreed, nor completely disagree.
The agreement or disagreement with this statement can depend on the perspective and implementation of such schemes.
Some aspects of welfare schemes are discriminatory:
Targeting Specific Group:
Many welfare schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna aim to provide housing for economically weaker sections of society, mostly for Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribes. It is discriminatory based on caste and economic status.
Mid Day Meal program provides nutritional meals to school children, promoting education and nutrition among children. It is discriminatory as it is based on the age. Adult populations in poor sections of society also lack nutritional food.
Gender Discrimination and Gender Stereotypes:
Some welfare schemes like PM Ujjawala Yojna target only women. It is discriminatory in nature based on gender and it is a gender stereotype as it implies that only women should cook.
Some aspects of welfare schemes are not discriminatory in nature:
Equity and Social Justice:
Development and Welfare Schemes are often designed to promote equity and social justice by addressing the historical and systemic inequalities faced by vulnerable populations. The intention is to ensure that everyone has equal access to opportunities.
Inclusive Development Scheme:
Many welfare schemes like the "Beti Bachao Beti Padhao", PM Jan Dhan Account, and 'POSHAN Abhiyan" are based on inclusive development.
Aim to reduce Economic and Social Disparities:
The purpose of welfare schemes is to reduce disparities and bridge gaps in socioeconomic indicators.
Human Rights Perspectives:
Welfare schemes aim to fulfill the rights and entitlements of vulnerable populations, it is aimed to attempt to rectify historical injustices.
In Summary, development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable are perceived as discriminatory or not depends on the framing and execution of these programs. However, these welfare schemes address specific needs and promote depending on inclusivity, equity, and social justice.
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