Social Development and the Empowernment of Marginalised Groups : Perspectives and Strategies

In the wake of globalisation, a paradigm shift in the development strategy of the state, proliferation of grassroots mobilisations and the emergence of a new collective identity among marginalised groups, the concepts of social development and empowerment have acquired new connotations. Bringing together original contributions from scholars, researchers and social activists, this volume explores the initiatives, strategies and potential obstacles in the way of the social development and empowerment of the marginalised in the current scenario. Examining the concept of empowerment in contemporary development discourse, the contributors maintain that the notion of empowerment as something given from above merely allows pre-existing power structures to prevail. Further, consequent to globalisation and the introduction of free market economics, inequalities and social fragmentation are likely to be aggravated. The dominant model of development planning is criticised for its promotion of capitalism and globalisation, as is the failure of constitutional provisions in improving the lives of marginalised section of society. In this framework, the contributors contend that there is the need for an alternative model for sustainable, self-reliant and participatory development and the formation of a new collective identity through civil society and social movements. To illustrate these possibilities, the contributors present various success stories including panchayati raj institutions, workers’ cooperatives, women’s participation in decision-making processes, and education through the open learning system. These examples emphasise the significant role that collective identity formation and collective participation can play in the empowerment of marginalised groups. Finally, the contributors explore the role of constitutional and legislative measures in social development and empowerment. They conclude that there is a pressing need for a separate decentralised scheme for tribal administration which should be in keeping with customary laws and systems of traditional community management. Establishing the crucial relationship between the theory and practice of social development and empowerment, this important volume will be of interest to social activists, policy makers, development specialists and social workers as well as those involved in gender studies, sociology, public administration and political science.