What are the Key Drivers of the Gaps Present in the Indian Welfare System and How do NGOs Help Bridge these Gaps?

Gopika Nair

Abstract: With a population of over 1.4 billion people, India has the largest population in the world, making the country's welfare system more crucial than ever as so many people depend on it. However, the Indian Welfare System is notorious for its numerous shortfalls. This research paper examines the key drivers of gaps present in the Indian Welfare System and how NGOs bridge these gaps by analysing existing literature and original qualitative data collected through interviews. The eight interviewees included NGO representatives, social workers, and a former civil official. Although the scale of the research was quite limited, no significant biases were found. The results indicated that the primary drivers behind gaps include poor communication between the government and beneficiaries, inconsistencies in data collection across the country, resource constraints, and corruption. Additionally, it was found that NGOs play a vital role in bridging gaps in the Indian welfare system, as they work at the grassroot level and interact directly with beneficiaries, something the government does not have the reach or resources to do. The paper also discusses further scope for related research.

Keywords: India welfare system, NGOs, gaps in welfare, government communication, corruption