Human Security in India Discourse, Practices and Policy Implications

Focusing on India yet speaking to South Asia more broadly, this book argues for a people-centric conception of security that complements traditional state and territorial concerns. It documents the evolution of the human security idea in Indian policy debates, reviews sectoral threats—from chronic poverty and health shocks to environmental stress, gender-based violence and forced displacement—and demonstrates how gaps in service delivery convert routine hazards into crises. The author combines statistical analysis with case studies to show where institutions perform and where they fall short, highlighting the role of federalism and state capacity in shaping outcomes. A major contribution is the translation of abstract principles into an operational planning framework that ministries and states can adapt. The book also draws lessons from cross-border experience, including SAARC initiatives and disaster-cooperation pilots, and underscores the importance of accountable, participatory governance. By making the case for pragmatic human security, it reframes policy success as measurable improvements in everyday safety and opportunity.