Economic reforms, public transfers and social safety nets for the poor: A study of India and China

Abstract

Increased economic insecurity helps to spur individuals to work harder and be more efficient according to the theory of work incentive. However, in a civilised society, the society has a moral obligation to provide basic needs and social safety nets for its poor and unfortunate members who, due to factors beyond their own control, have not been able to earn a living. This paper analyses the trade‐off between economic reforms and economic and social security in India and China. The findings show that both countries’ attempts to minimise the social costs of economic reforms have not been successful. The policy implications are also discussed.

Citation

Roy, K.C. and Chai, J.C.H. (1999), "Economic reforms, public transfers and social safety nets for the poor: A study of India and China", International Journal of Social Economics, Vol. 26 No. 1/2/3, pp. 222-238. https://doi.org/10.1108/03068299910229596