Mains Practice Questions

Approach

• Start the answer by introducing the Social Justice.
• Illustrate the effectiveness of India's flagship welfare schemes in promoting social justice.
• Analyze the relevance of welfare schemes in reducing inequality.
• Conclude suitably.

Introduction

India's flagship welfare schemes have been instrumental in promoting social justice and reducing inequality. These schemes, aimed at uplifting marginalized communities and ensuring inclusive growth, have played a significant role in addressing various socio-economic challenges.

Body

Effectiveness in Promoting Social Justice and Reducing Inequality:

1. Impact on Poverty Alleviation:

• The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) with its rights-based framework for 100 days of guaranteed unskilled work in rural India has provided employment opportunities to millions of rural households, reducing poverty and improving livelihoods.
• According to a World Bank report, MGNREGA has contributed to a reduction in poverty rates and increased rural consumption.
• Example: MGNREGA provided livelihood support to migrant workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, preventing a deeper economic crisis.

2. Enhancing Food Security:

• The National Food Security Act (NFSA) aims to provide subsidized food grains to two-thirds of the population.
• NFSA has improved food security and nutrition outcomes, especially for vulnerable groups.
• Example: The provision of nutritious food through Anganwadi centers has helped in reducing malnutrition among children.

3. Improving Healthcare Access:

• The Ayushman Bharat scheme, which includes the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), aims to provide health insurance coverage to vulnerable families.
• PMJAY has facilitated access to healthcare services for millions, reducing the financial burden of medical expenses.
• Example: PMJAY covered the medical expenses of a family in a remote village, enabling them to afford life-saving treatment.

4. Empowering Women:

• Schemes like the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) and the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) aim to improve the status of women in society.
• BBBP has led to increased awareness about the importance of the girl child and has contributed to a decline in the sex ratio imbalance in certain regions.
• Example: PMMVY provides financial assistance to pregnant and lactating mothers, enabling them to access healthcare services and nutrition.

5. Promoting Education:

• The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) and the Mid-Day Meal Scheme (MDMS) aim to enhance access to quality education.
• SSA has led to an increase in school enrollment and retention rates, especially among marginalized communities.
• Example: MDMS has improved the nutritional status of children and has encouraged regular attendance in schools.

6. Addressing Housing and Infrastructure Needs:

• The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) aims to provide affordable housing to all by 2022.
• PMAY has facilitated the construction of houses for the homeless and those living in inadequate housing conditions.
• Example: PMAY-Grameen has provided pucca houses to rural households, improving their living standards.

Conclusion:

India's flagship welfare schemes have been effective in promoting social justice and reducing inequality by addressing various socio-economic challenges. These schemes have not only improved the lives of millions but have also contributed to the overall development of the country. However, there is a need for continuous evaluation and improvement to ensure that these schemes reach the intended beneficiaries and achieve their objectives effectively.