18 Apr Lessons from Tamil Nadu’s development model and Capability approach to development
THIS ARTICLE COVERS ‘DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS’ AND THE TOPIC DETAILS “Capability approach”. THIS TOPIC IS RELEVANT IN THE “ECONOMY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE” SECTION OF GS3 IN THE UPSC CSE EXAM.
Why in the news?
As Tamil Nadu gears up for the upcoming national polls, a comprehensive examination of its economic, social, and environmental metrics reveals a story of holistic development over time. The state stands out among its peers, showcasing commendable progress across a spectrum of indicators.
Tamil Nadu’s remarkable strides in child health, women’s empowerment, and educational attainment position it among the leading states in these crucial areas. Simultaneously, the state’s robust economic performance, buoyed by a thriving manufacturing sector, places it at the forefront of economic advancement among major states.
Reasons that contributed in Tamil Nadu’s holistic development
Diversified and decentralized Industrialization: Tamil Nadu has emerged as one of the leading industrial states in India. The state government has implemented policies and initiatives to attract investment, particularly in sectors like automobile manufacturing, textiles, IT and software services, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy. Cities like Chennai, Coimbatore, and Tirupur have become major industrial hubs, contributing significantly to the state’s economic growth. Also, there is decentralization of industrial setup i.e. no only near the capital but across tamil nadu.
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- Infrastructure Development: The state has focused on developing robust infrastructure, including roads, ports, airports, and power infrastructure. The Chennai Port and the upcoming Ennore Port have enhanced the state’s connectivity and facilitated trade. The Chennai Metro Rail project and various highway projects have improved transportation within the state, further boosting economic activities.
- Education and Human Capital: Tamil Nadu has a strong focus on education, with a high literacy rate and numerous educational institutions offering quality education. Chennai, in particular, is known for its engineering colleges and research institutions. A skilled workforce is instrumental in attracting investments and fostering innovation in various sectors.
- Information Technology (IT) and Services: Tamil Nadu has emerged as a major IT and software services hub, with Chennai being dubbed as the “Detroit of India” for its thriving automobile industry and “Silicon Valley of India” for its IT sector. The state government has provided support for the growth of IT parks and Special Economic Zones (SEZs), attracting both domestic and international IT companies.
- Social Welfare Schemes: The state government has implemented various social welfare schemes aimed at poverty alleviation, healthcare, education, and women’s empowerment. Initiatives such as the Public Distribution System (PDS), Amma Unavagam (subsidized canteens), Amma Two-Wheeler Scheme and proper implementation of mid- day meal scheme have improved the quality of life for many residents.
- Tourism: Tamil Nadu boasts a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, attracting tourists from across the globe. Historical monuments such as the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur and Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, along with picturesque hill stations like Ooty and Kodaikanal, contribute to the state’s tourism sector, generating revenue and employment.
- Women empowerment:
- Tamil Nadu has made significant strides in women empowerment through various initiatives. The state government has implemented schemes like the Women’s Self-Help Group (SHG) program, providing financial assistance and skill development opportunities to women. Additionally, policies promoting women’s education, healthcare, and political participation have been prioritized.
- Tamil Nadu has also taken steps to combat gender-based violence, with the establishment of special courts and helplines. These efforts have resulted in increased economic independence, improved health outcomes, and greater representation of women in decision-making roles, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
- AS per a data, female labor force participation rates in Tamil nadu is among the highest in the country.
Capability approach
Amartya Sen’s Capability Approach is a philosophical and economic framework that focuses on the individual’s freedom to achieve well-being. Sen argues that traditional measures of well-being, such as income or GDP per capita, fail to capture the true quality of life experienced by individuals. Instead, he proposes assessing well-being in terms of people’s capabilities – their ability to choose and achieve valuable functioning that they have reason to value.
Central to Sen’s Capability Approach is the concept of “capabilities,” which refers to the various opportunities and freedoms available to individuals to lead lives they have reason to value. These capabilities encompass a range of factors, including access to education, healthcare, political participation, employment opportunities, social inclusion, and freedom from exploitation and violence.
Unlike traditional approaches that focus solely on income or material wealth, Sen emphasizes the importance of considering people’s actual ability to function in society and achieve their goals. For example, while two individuals may have the same level of income, their capabilities to lead fulfilling lives may differ significantly due to factors such as access to education, healthcare, and social support networks.
The Capability Approach underscores the significance of addressing inequalities and enhancing opportunities for all individuals to develop their capabilities fully. It emphasizes the role of social policies and interventions in promoting human development and well-being, with a focus on enhancing people’s freedom to choose and pursue their life goals.
Sen’s approach has been influential in shaping discussions around development, social justice, and public policy, advocating for a more holistic and human-centered approach to assessing and promoting well-being. By focusing on capabilities, Sen’s framework highlights the intrinsic value of individual freedoms and the importance of creating enabling environments that empower people to live lives they value.
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Prelims question
Question:
Which of the following best describes Amartya Sen’s Capability Approach?
A) A theory focused solely on economic growth and GDP per capita.
B) An approach that emphasizes the importance of enhancing people’s freedoms and opportunities.
C) A political ideology advocating for authoritarian governance.
D) A framework that prioritizes maximizing corporate profits.
Correct Answer: B) An approach that emphasizes the importance of enhancing people’s freedoms and opportunities.
Explanation: Amartya Sen’s Capability Approach is a philosophical and economic framework that prioritizes enhancing people’s capabilities to lead lives they have reason to value. It emphasizes the importance of freedoms and opportunities beyond mere economic metrics, aiming for a more holistic understanding of human well-being.
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