ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. Sarvodaya, the largest people's organization in Sri Lanka, represents a unique example of a large-scale socioeconomic development, which has unfolded, virtually unrecognized, in the worlds backyard over the past 50 years. Emerging out of a country battling with civil war, this case nevertheless serves to give us hope, that fundamental change is possible, even in the most difficult of environments. Sarvodayas has clearly identified some basic human needs that it seeks to satisfy are as follows: a clean environment; clean and adequate water supply; minimum clothing requirements; balanced diet; simple housing; basic health care; simple communication facilities; and cultural and spiritual needs, so on. In addressing the basic needs, Sarvodaya has strictly avoided any association with party politics. Rather, it has engaged completely with the people themselves in deciding on their plans and priorities.
