By TwoCircles.net news desk
New Delhi: Indian economy is going the corporate way; whether it is rural or agricultural development programme, the poor remain at the receiving end, observed panellists at a discussion in New Delhi.
They were unanimous on the view that the gaps between the rural and the urban, organised and unorganised sectors are widening. This was the consensus emerged during the panel discussion on “Direction of Indian Economy in the Light of Budget 2008” organised jointly by Radiance Viewsweekly and Daanish Books publishing house at Constitution Club in the Capital on 8th March.
Degnetaries on the stage
Prof. Arun Kumar of Jawaharlal Nehru University’s Centre for Economic Studies and Planning, expressed his concern over growing disparities in the society, lack of adequate investment in agricultural sector and rising unemployment. He advocated a paradigm shift in Indian economy by bringing market forces and technology under the subordination of social interests. “Technology should be under man’s control rather than technology and markets controlling us,” he observed.
Prof. Arun Kumar addressing the gathering
Prof. M.S. Bhatt, Head of the Department of Economics, Jamia Millia Islamia, emphasised the necessity of community development programmes and a change in the structure of Indian agricultural system. “Only 20% of land belongs to villagers; the rest is under the possession of the Chautalas and the Badals, or the Bachchans, who hold big farm houses,” he lamented.
Prof. M.S. Bhatt addressing the panel discussion
Dr. N. Hansa, Director WomenPowerConnect, analysed the evolution of women specific initiatives of the Government of India in the five-year plans and general budgets. She expressed her satisfaction that the Government at least pay heed to their recommendations and does as much as possible.
Mr. Saumen Chattopadhyay of JNU focussed on the fiscal as well as social sector aspects of the Budget. He expressed his discontent with rising indirect taxes and falling direct taxes. This, according to him, should be the other way round to ensure social equality. He also expressed his concern over the sorry state of affairs when it comes to standard and delivery mechanism of the schemes especially in the field of education.