Socio-Economic Disparities in Rural Rajasthan: A Review of Development Challenges at the Gram Panchayat Level in Talwara Block

Abstract

Rural development in India faces persistent socio-economic disparities, particularly in tribal-dominated regions like Talwara Block, Banswara district, Rajasthan. This review examines disparities at the Gram Panchayat level, focusing on literacy, healthcare, income, and infrastructure. By analyzing existing literature, government reports, and policy evaluations, the study assesses the effectiveness of key rural development programs such as Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA), National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).Despite these interventions, tribal and marginalized communities continue to face challenges like low literacy rates, inadequate healthcare, limited employment opportunities, and poor infrastructure. The review explores the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in addressing these disparities and identifies systemic barriers such as administrative inefficiencies, financial constraints, and lack of participatory governance. The findings highlight the need for targeted policy reforms, emphasizing strengthening local governance, improving education and healthcare access, promoting economic inclusion, and enhancing infrastructure development. The paper concludes with recommendations for data-driven policy planning, community participation, and sustainable rural development strategies to ensure equitable growth across rural Rajasthan.