Land needed for mining, dams and other large-scale projects is acquired mostly from Adivasis, hill dwellers and rural communities. The displaced persons are paid monetary compensation as per the legal provisions. However, the payment is often tardy. In any case, it cannot sustain the displaced families for long. These people do not possess marketable skills to engage in some other occupation. They end up as low paid migrant labourers. Moreover, their traditional ways of community living are destroyed. Thus, the benefits of development go to industries, industrialists and urban communities whereas the costs are passed on to these poor helpless people. This unjust distribution of costs and benefits is unethical.

Suppose you have been entrusted with the task of drafting a better compensation-cum-rehabilitation policy for such displaced persons, how would you approach the problem and what would be the main elements of your suggested policy?(250 words) [UPSC 2016]

Roadmap for Answer Writing

Introduction

• Context: Introduce the issue of land acquisition for large-scale projects affecting Adivasis, hill dwellers, and rural communities.
• Problem Statement: Highlight the inadequacy of current compensation mechanisms and the resulting hardships faced by displaced persons.
• Thesis Statement: Present the need for a comprehensive compensation-cum-rehabilitation policy that addresses the ethical concerns surrounding displacement.

Body

1. Identifying Key Issues

• Inadequate Compensation: Discuss how monetary compensation is often delayed and insufficient for long-term sustainability.
• Loss of Skills: Emphasize the lack of marketable skills among displaced persons, leading to low-paying migrant labor.
• Destruction of Community: Explain the impact on traditional ways of living and community structures.

2. Main Elements of the Suggested Policy

1. Timely and Fair Compensation:
   • Description: Ensure prompt and adequate compensation based on market value and future potential earnings.
   • Justification: Prevents financial instability during the transition period.
2. Skill Development Programs:
   • Description: Implement vocational training tailored to the community’s needs.
   • Justification: Enhances employability and helps displaced persons secure better jobs.
   • Fact: Investment in skills can boost employment rates significantly (Source: ILO, 2017).
3. Alternative Livelihood Opportunities:
   • Description: Promote sustainable agricultural practices and community-based enterprises.
   • Justification: Fosters self-reliance and reduces dependency on low-paid labor.
4. Infrastructure Development:
   • Description: Improve healthcare, education, and community facilities in resettlement areas.
   • Justification: Ensures access to essential services for rebuilding lives.
5. Participatory Decision-Making:
   • Description: Involve affected communities in consultations regarding compensation and rehabilitation.
   • Justification: Empowers communities and ensures their needs are prioritized.
   • Fact: Participatory approaches lead to improved project outcomes (Source: UNDP, 2018).
6. Environmental Restoration:
   • Description: Include measures for eco-restoration and sustainable land use.
   • Justification: Protects the environment and supports community livelihoods.
7. Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanism:
   • Description: Establish a system to assess policy effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
   • Justification: Ensures the policy adapts to the evolving needs of displaced persons.

Conclusion

• Summary: Recap the key elements of the proposed policy and its potential to address the unjust distribution of costs and benefits.
• Final Thought: Emphasize the need for ethical considerations in development to ensure that the rights and welfare of displaced persons are prioritized.