Social Identity, Recognition And Redistribution In Health Service Delivery: A Case Of Anganwadi Services Scheme In Ajmer District, Rajasthan

Abstract

The dominant discussions in India when it comes to health and nutrition services have often over emphasized the more visible issues in access and utilization, such as scarce resources, unequal spending, poor coverage and infrastructure, human resource shortage, affordability and issues of governance, etc. However, not enough attention has been given to questions of discrimination and exclusion due to one’s social identity and belonging. This study explores the differing health status of the marginalised social groups in India, analyses the way policy documents have tried to accommodate these differences and the contribution of the Supreme Court in ensuring right to health of all. Through primary research, this research is an attempt to understand the role of social identity in defining the contours of health service delivery in India. The theories of differentiated citizenship, recognition and redistribution are used to understand how health inequities are nothing but a reflection of the existing socio-cultural and economic inequities existing in society. The article suggests that social justice can only be ensured by redistribution within the economic sphere and recognition of group differences within the socio-cultural sphere. Public policies, both in its content and merit, need to mirror the realities of the people and address the social barriers to inclusion and access that the marginalised groups experience.