"Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach." Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer.
On the surface, one might agree that development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable are "discriminatory in approach," as they explicitly target specific groups, inherently differentiating them from the general population. However, it's crucial to understand that this is not discrimination in the pejorative or unjust sense, but rather a deliberate and constitutionally mandated strategy of positive or differentiated treatment aimed at achieving substantive equality and social justice.
The rationale behind such schemes is to rectify historical injustices, overcome systemic disadvantages, and bridge existing socio-economic disparities. Formal equality, which treats everyone the same regardless of their starting point, often perpetuates inequality. Therefore, welfare schemes adopt a discriminatory approach by design, offering specific benefits, reservations, or support to vulnerable sections like women, children, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, backward classes, and persons with disabilities.
This approach is firmly rooted in the Indian Constitution. Article 15(3) explicitly allows the state to make "special provisions for women and children," and Article 15(4) and 16(4) permit reservations and special provisions for socially and educationally backward classes and Scheduled Castes/Tribes. These provisions reflect the understanding that unequals cannot be treated equally.
Such targeted interventions are indispensable for fostering inclusive growth and ensuring that the benefits of development reach those who have been marginalized. Rather than being inherently negative, this "discriminatory" approach is a fundamental tool for achieving true equity, enabling vulnerable groups to participate effectively in society and enjoy their rights on par with others, thus moving towards a more just and equitable society.
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Important Questions from GS2
Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with particular reference to "one nation one election" principle.
Explain and distinguish between Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunals. Whether they entertain civil as well as criminal cases?
"The growth of cabinet system has practically resulted in the marginalisation of the parliamentary supremacy.” Elucidate.
"The duty of the Comptroller and Auditor General is not merely to ensure the legality of expenditure but also its propriety.” Comment.
Public charitable trusts have the potential to make India's development more inclusive as they relate to certain vital public issues. Comment.
