Community development in India

Community development as a concept and a programme to be implemented on behalf of Government was born eight years ago. This is a relatively short span in the history of a people who number more than 40 crores and whose ante cedents date back thousands of years. Yet, within this short period, community development has spread out to cover virtually two-thirds of the country. It has excited interest within and beyond the shores of India. The programme is receiving encomiums and also brickbats.

Dealing with material is a relatively easy science. Physical sciences can be developed to certain points of perfection. The mind and spirit of man, however, present a different front altogether. Man still continues to be a mystery unto himself. No wonder, the community of man is facing serious challenges with the advent of the Sputnik age. No wonder, the quest for community development should sail through ever-growing shoals and rapids.

The programme travels both in depth and expanse. It must reflect the dynamics of life. It has perforce to change and grow in character. No single book on the subject could ever promise to remain up to date for long. Besides, the fact that the programme covers almost every aspect of life of the individual and the community in our villages makes it equally difficult for a single person to attempt a comprehensive nar rative of it. Yet, a book such as this has been the dire need of the hour.