Development: Socio-Cultural Dimensions

Abstract

This paper deals with the development issues of marginalized section of population living in slums in India. The people in slums live under the most deplorable conditions, with little access to effective social and health care services, potable water, or sanitation facilities and are therefore more vulnerable to epidemics and developmental challenges. Their low socioeconomic status, low level of education and high fertility and mortality-all indicate that they need special attention in terms of public health, family planning and reproductive health programs. However, unfortunately reverse is the case with such segments of slum population. Rapid slummification has caused wide spread of environmental degradation in the city. The government has conceded that despite imposition of regulatory measures, the magnitude of pollution from industrial sources in the city has not shown any appreciable decrease during the last few years. An attempt has been made to unfold several development issues needed for the slum dwellers through this study.