ABSTRACT
In Etawah, an experimental project was initiated in 1948 which drew heavily from the experience of the earlier Indian community development efforts, but at the same time recognized the need for continued governmental assistance, and for establishing the kind of organizational structures necessary to reach the villagers and gain their participation. In 1951, the Ford Foundation began Etawah Project experimental work in 15 area projects, and in October of 1952 the Government of India launched the national program of community development. Two periods need to be distinguished in the Indian community development program. The first, from 1952 to 1956, was the early period of the national program when community development was under the direction of a supraministerial coordinating agency known as the Community Projects Administration. The second, beginning in 1956 saw community development become a full-fledged ministry.
