Community Development as a World Movement

1) World Movement
Community development as a world movement involves a broad range of efforts aimed at
improving the quality of life for individuals within communities globally. This movement
encompasses various aspects:

1. *Empowerment and Capacity Building:* Community development focuses on empowering

individuals and groups with the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to bring about positive
change. This often involves training, education, and leadership development.

2. *Sustainable Development:* Emphasizing sustainability, the movement seeks to create

solutions that meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet
their own needs. This includes environmental conservation, sustainable agriculture, and green
technologies.

3. *Economic Development:* Efforts are made to improve the economic well-being of

communities through job creation, support for small businesses, and the development of local
economies. Microfinance, cooperatives, and social enterprises are common tools used.

4. *Social Inclusion:* The movement aims to reduce social inequalities and ensure that all
members of a community have access to basic services, such as healthcare, education, and
housing. This involves addressing issues of discrimination, marginalization, and exclusion.

5. *Health and Well-being:* Improving health outcomes is a crucial aspect of community

development. This includes public health initiatives, access to healthcare services, mental health
support, and programs to combat diseases and malnutrition.

6. *Education and Literacy:* Providing access to quality education and promoting literacy are
fundamental to community development. This includes formal education, vocational training,
and lifelong learning opportunities.

7. *Infrastructure Development:* Building and improving infrastructure, such as roads, water

supply systems, sanitation, and housing, is vital for the development of communities. This
infrastructure supports economic activities and improves living conditions.
8. *Community Participation:* A core principle of community development is involving
community members in the decision-making process. This participatory approach ensures that
initiatives are tailored to the specific needs and priorities of the community.

9. *Global Networks and Collaboration:* The movement is supported by various international

organizations, NGOs, and networks that promote collaboration, share best practices, and provide
funding and resources for community development projects.

10. *Policy Advocacy:* Advocating for policies that support community development at local,
national, and international levels is crucial. This involves engaging with governments and other
stakeholders to create an enabling environment for sustainable community development.

The global community development movement is driven by the belief that empowering
communities leads to more resilient, equitable, and sustainable societies.

2) United Nations and Community Development

The United Nations (UN) plays a significant role in community development through various
agencies, programs, and initiatives designed to promote sustainable development, reduce
poverty, and improve the quality of life in communities worldwide. Here are some key ways the
UN contributes to community development:

1. *Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):* The UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development includes 17 SDGs, which provide a comprehensive framework for addressing
global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and access to education and
healthcare. The SDGs guide community development efforts by setting targets and indicators for
progress.

2. *United Nations Development Programme (UNDP):* The UNDP is one of the leading UN
agencies focused on community development. It works in nearly 170 countries and territories,
supporting initiatives that promote inclusive growth, governance, resilience, and environmental
sustainability. The UNDP provides technical assistance, funding, and expertise to help
communities achieve their development goals.
3. *United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF):* UNICEF focuses on the well-being of children
and their families, emphasizing access to education, healthcare, nutrition, and protection. By
supporting community-based programs, UNICEF aims to improve the lives of children and
promote their development.

4. *World Health Organization (WHO):* The WHO plays a critical role in improving health
outcomes in communities. It provides guidance, resources, and support for public health
initiatives, disease prevention, and health system strengthening. The WHO's efforts contribute to
healthier and more resilient communities.

5. *Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO):* The FAO works to eradicate hunger and
promote food security through sustainable agricultural practices. By supporting community-
based agricultural projects, the FAO helps improve livelihoods and nutrition in rural areas.

6. *United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO):* UNESCO

promotes education, science, culture, and communication as tools for development. It supports
community-based educational programs, cultural preservation, and knowledge sharing to
empower communities.

7. *UN Women:* This organization focuses on gender equality and the empowerment of women
and girls. By addressing issues such as gender-based violence, economic empowerment, and
political participation, UN Women supports the development of more inclusive and equitable
communities.

8. *International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD):* IFAD provides financial and
technical assistance to rural communities, helping them develop sustainable agricultural
practices, improve infrastructure, and access markets. IFAD's work aims to reduce rural poverty
and enhance food security.

9. *United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP):* UNEP promotes environmental

sustainability and supports community-based projects that address issues such as climate change,
biodiversity conservation, and pollution. By fostering sustainable practices, UNEP helps
communities build resilience to environmental challenges.

10. *United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat):* UN-Habitat focuses on

urban development and improving living conditions in cities and towns. It supports initiatives
related to housing, infrastructure, and urban planning to create more sustainable and inclusive
urban environments.

Through these and other initiatives, the United Nations helps facilitate community development
by providing resources, expertise, and a global platform for collaboration and knowledge
sharing. The UN's efforts are instrumental in addressing the complex and interconnected
challenges facing communities around the world.

3) Community development programs in Indo-Pak subcontinent

Community development programs in the Indo-Pak subcontinent have a rich history and have
evolved over time to address various socio-economic challenges. Here are some key aspects and
notable programs from both India and Pakistan:

### India

1. *Integrated Rural Development Programme (IRDP):*

- Launched in 1978-79, IRDP aimed to provide opportunities for self-employment to the rural
poor through asset creation and skill development.
- It targeted various marginalized groups, including small farmers, agricultural laborers, and
rural artisans.

2. *National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) / Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA):*
- Initiated in 2005, MGNREGA guarantees 100 days of wage employment to rural households
annually.
- It focuses on creating durable assets like roads, canals, and ponds while improving the
livelihood security of rural residents.

3. *Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission):*

- Launched in 2014, this nationwide campaign aims to eliminate open defecation and improve
solid waste management.
- It has significantly impacted public health and sanitation in rural and urban areas.
4. *Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana (PMAY):*
- This housing initiative aims to provide affordable housing to the urban poor by 2022.
- The rural component, PMAY-G (Gramin), focuses on providing pucca houses to rural
families.

5. *Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY):*

- This initiative aims to transform rural poor youth into an economically independent and
globally relevant workforce.
- It provides skill training and placement opportunities.

### Pakistan

1. *Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP):*

- Launched in 2008, BISP provides cash transfers to low-income families, primarily targeting
women.
- It aims to alleviate poverty and promote women's empowerment through financial inclusion.

2. *Akhuwat Foundation:*
- This organization provides interest-free microfinance loans to the economically
disadvantaged.
- It supports small businesses, education, and healthcare initiatives at the community level.

3. *Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF):*

- Established in 2000, PPAF focuses on poverty reduction through microfinance, infrastructure
development, health, education, and disaster management.
- It works with various partner organizations to implement community-driven development
projects.

4. *Ehsaas Program:*
 - Launched in 2019, this comprehensive social safety and poverty alleviation initiative includes
multiple programs aimed at health, education, and financial inclusion.
- It also focuses on supporting marginalized groups, such as the elderly, disabled, and widows.

5. *Rural Support Programmes (RSPs):*

- These are a series of community-driven development initiatives that aim to empower rural
communities through capacity building, infrastructure development, and livelihood
enhancement.
- Notable RSPs include the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP) and the National
Rural Support Programme (NRSP).

### Common Themes and Challenges

- *Poverty Alleviation:* Both countries have focused heavily on poverty reduction through direct
financial assistance, employment schemes, and microfinance.
- *Women’s Empowerment:* Programs often target women to improve household incomes and
social status, recognizing their crucial role in community development.
- *Healthcare and Education:* Access to healthcare and education remains a priority, with
numerous initiatives aimed at improving these sectors.
- *Infrastructure Development:* Building and improving infrastructure, such as roads, water
supply systems, and housing, is a common goal to support economic activities and improve
living conditions.
- *Sustainability and Environment:* There is a growing emphasis on sustainable practices and
environmental conservation in community development efforts.

Despite progress, challenges such as political instability, corruption, and resource constraints
continue to affect the implementation and effectiveness of community development programs in
the Indo-Pak subcontinent. However, the commitment to improving the lives of the
disadvantaged remains strong, with ongoing efforts to innovate and adapt strategies to local
needs.

4) The historical development of community development programs in

Pakistan
 Community development programs were slowly and gradually developed in Pakistani Society
due to its rigidity, traditionalism and resistance. The change started with the Development
technology, economy and other changes in community people as well as In cities and villages.
The development process starts through a series of evolutionary stages in the field of Economy,
political achievements and social stability. The history of community Development in Pakistan
started 1950.
• In Pakistan social welfare or community development subject was introduced in 1951.
• First United Nations advisor came to Pakistan in March 1952, analyzed the
Problems and arranged various developmental trainings for the development of the community.
• First short term training was conducted in Karachi, in October 1952 for 6 months.
• Second short term training course was conducted in Dacca in September 1953 For 3 months.
• Fist social welfare office and officer was appointed in 1953.
• Fourth training course conducted in Karachi in August 1954 for 3 months.
• First community development project, as a training center was established in Malir.
• First medical social service project was established in T.B Center Karachi in 1953.
• First urban community development project was established in February 1954 in Lyari,
Karachi.
• First administration budget for social welfare made in 1953-54.
• With the creation of one unit in October 1955, the department of social welfare and Local
government was established in West Pakistan.
• Professional social work education started in November 1954 in Puniab
University and master level studies in 1956.
• Provincial council of social welfare formed in October 1956.
• Subordinate office of social welfare was made in September 1956.
• Social welfare central directorate was established in 1959.
• Social welfare as a subject transferred to province in May 1962.
• Part time Director of Social Welfare was appointed in June 1962 and full time in January 1964.
• Directorate General of Social Welfare was divided into four provinces in June 1970.
After the division of Directorate General of Social Welfare in each province, they did Many
developmental activities and work for the improvement of the community