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VOL. 8, ISSUE 2 (2026)
Rural social sector: Transitional trends in India
Authors
Dr. Nazeeruddin
Abstract
The rural social sector in India has undergone a profound
transformation from a welfare-oriented, state-led model to a rights-based,
decentralized, technology-enabled, and partnership-driven development
framework. The social sector—covering education, health, nutrition, drinking
water, sanitation, housing, social protection, and livelihoods—plays a central
role in reducing multidimensional poverty and strengthening human capabilities
in rural areas. This paper critically examines the major transitional trends in
India's rural social sector from the post-independence period to the present.
It analyses policy shifts, institutional reforms, budgetary trends, and
development outcomes using secondary data from the Government of India, the
National Statistical Office, NITI Aayog, and international agencies. The study
identifies five major transformations: (1) transition from welfare to
empowerment, (2) decentralization and community participation, (3) rights-based
social policy, (4) digital governance and direct benefit transfers, and (5)
convergence and public-private partnerships. While substantial progress has
been made in health, education, sanitation, and social protection, challenges
remain in regional disparities, implementation deficits, exclusion, and fiscal
sustainability. And finally it concludes that the rural social sector has
become a strategic pillar of inclusive and sustainable development in India.
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Pages:80-82
How to cite this article:
Dr. Nazeeruddin "Rural social sector: Transitional trends in India". International Journal of Social Research and Development, Vol 8, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 80-82
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