ABSTRACT
Despite satisfactory economic growth since the liberalization of the 1990s, human development indicators remain low, income inequality is on the rise, poverty levels remain high, and unemployment rates are unacceptably high. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the economic and social crisis. Therefore, an alternative development approach that encompasses both well-being and livelihoods is imperative to radically improve people’s lives. Conventional development paradigms need to be reviewed. Seven vital inter-connected development areas – health, nutrition and food security, school education, the young child, livelihoods, gender, and urban issues – have been prioritized. The starting point is a critical analysis of existing programmes in these areas to identify systemic design flaws. The alternate approach is solutions-oriented and based on a deep understanding of the target audience – particularly the neediest households – and considers the nature of government institutions and implementation structures. The chapter lays down the book’s central hypothesis that an alternative approach with a dual focus on well-being and livelihoods can significantly improve the quality of life for citizens. The proposals are implementable, have political resonance, and are within the government’s fiscal capacity.
