The book is focused on development policies and programmes that are aimed at improving the plight of the disadvantaged groups in India. It examines the shift in India’s development planning over the years—one from mere expansion of goods and services to one involving planning for enhancement of human well-being. It views the importance of the concept of inclusive growth for development which demands that all social groups have equal access to the services provided by public authorities and equal opportunities for upward socio-economic mobility. It deals specifically with the welfare and empowerment of the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes and the Other Backward Classes; development of minorities; empowerment of women at different levels, persons with disabilities, older persons and social deviants; and protection and welfare of children. It has numerous case studies, offers details of provisions of significant Acts and presents a range of statistics for the purpose.