Chapter 1: Development – Interactive Summary Notes
1. Understanding Development
- Development is not just about income—it’s about improving the quality of life, ensuring freedom, equality, and security.
- It involves answering questions like:
- What kind of life do we want?
- Can everyone live better together?
- How do we ensure fairness and sustainability?
2. Different People, Different Goals
- Development goals vary by person and context:
- A landless laborer may want more work and education for children.
- A rich urban girl may seek freedom and equal opportunity.
- Goals can conflict:
- Dams may benefit industries but displace tribal communities.
Key Insight: Development is subjective and can be beneficial for some but harmful for others.
3. Income and Beyond
- While income is important, people also value:
- Equal treatment
- Security
- Respect
- Freedom
- Example: A secure job with lower pay may be preferred over a high-paying but unstable one.
Conclusion: Non-material aspects are crucial for a fulfilling life.
4. National Development
- Just like individuals, nations have varied and sometimes conflicting development goals.
- Important questions:
- Does the idea benefit many or just a few?
- Is it fair and just?
- Is it sustainable?
Activity Prompt: Discuss what development should look like for your town or region.
5. Comparing Countries and States
- Per Capita Income is used to compare countries:
- Total income ÷ Population
- World Bank classification (2019):
- High-income: > $49,300/year
- Low-income: < $2,500/year
- India: $6,700/year → Low-middle income
Limitation: Averages hide inequalities. Example: Country B has one rich citizen and four poor—same average as Country A, but less equitable.
6. Income vs. Other Indicators
- States like Kerala outperform Haryana in health and education despite lower income.
- Indicators to consider:
- Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)
- Literacy Rate
- Net Attendance Ratio
Lesson: Income alone doesn’t reflect true development.
7. Role of Public Facilities
- Many essential services (education, healthcare, clean environment) are best provided collectively.
- Example: Kerala’s low IMR is due to strong public health and education systems.
Discussion Point: Can money alone ensure well-being?
8. Human Development Index (HDI)
- Published by UNDP, HDI includes:
- Life Expectancy
- Mean Years of Schooling
- Gross National Income (GNI) per capita
- Sri Lanka ranks higher than India in HDI due to better health and education.
Observation: Bangladesh and Nepal have better life expectancy than India despite lower income.
9. Sustainability of Development
- Development must be sustainable for future generations.
- Overuse of resources like groundwater and crude oil threatens long-term progress.
Examples:
- Groundwater depletion in Punjab and Western UP.
- Crude oil reserves may last only 50 years globally.
Reflection: “We have not inherited the Earth from our forefathers—we have borrowed it from our children.”
Key Terms at a Glance
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Per Capita Income | Average income per person |
| Literacy Rate | % of literate people aged 7+ |
| Infant Mortality Rate | Deaths of infants per 1000 live births |
| Net Attendance Ratio | % of children attending school in a specific age group |
| Life Expectancy | Average lifespan at birth |
| HDI | Composite index of health, education, and income |
| Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) | Adjusts income for cost of living across countries |