Social Sector Expenditure in India and Punjab: Trends during Pre-Reforms (1980-1991) and Post-Reforms (1991-2011) Periods

Social sector generally comprises those sectors of the economy which usually deal with human welfare and not with pure economics and economic considerations. Expenditure on it is generally welfare-oriented and no particular return in monetary terms is expected from it. Considering the importance of social sector expenditure and to understand the degree of government's involvement in and commitment to it, this paper examines the trends in social sector expenditure in India and Punjab during pre-reforms (1980-1991) and post-reforms (1991-2011) periods. It shows a decline in social sector expenditure and calls for an urgent introspection of policymakers so that the provision of basic social services receives balanced weight in the formulation of all macroeconomic plans, policies and programmes.