Communication Technology and Human Development: Recent Experiences in the Indian Social Sector

Based on the author’s personal experience of more than 30 years as a development communicator and consultant, this book aims to provide an understanding of the practical issues that arise in the planning and implementation of communication programmes to bring about behaviour change in the Indian context.

The first section of the book provides a historical background to the evolving nature of the application of communication technology in development. Case studies of innovative applications of communication technology, both in India and abroad, are described.

In the second section, the author presents experiences in three social sectors - literacy, health care, and rural development (including poverty alleviation). He describes major initiatives to apply communication technologies in the design and implementation of communication strategies in these sectors. The case studies provide practical information concerning key elements in appropriate development communication - setting objectives, programme design, planning, application of hardware, a multi-pronged approach, the preparation of materials, accountability, the participation of local communities, and professional management.