Communication technology and human development: Recent experiences in the Indian social sector

In the first section of the book, the author provides a historical background to the evolving nature of the application of communication technology in development. From the early thrust on disseminating messages and information, communication programs have grown to focus on modifying behaviour. Of late, he argues, they have further evolved through the representation of different interest groups concerned with, for example, human rights, conservation, and environmental issues. In Section II, the author presents recent experiences in three important social sectors-literacy, population issues, and rural development (including poverty alleviation). He describes major initiatives to apply communication technologies in the design and implementation of communication strategies in these sectors. In the concluding chapter, the author draws attention to various critical issues and concerns in the context of India's development. He argues that the importance of communication in facilitating social changes is not appreciated sufficiently by policy makers, nor the need to involve local communities in such initiatives. He also draws attention to the deep-seated social norms resulting in economic and social discrimination and a resistance to change.

SAGE Publications (2006).