Historical Perspective
Every society is destined to face the problems of looking after the
welfare of the sick, the weak, the destitute and the needy. All
societies are alike in this respect. One way of assessing the status
of a society on the road to civilization is the value accorded to an
individual and his basic human needs.
These have not
always received the attention they deserve in the planning of
economics, particularly in developing countries. Most of the
available resources are consumed by defense needs and pressing
demands for technological progress.
Programs for
development in the social sector remain a long way behind, mainly
because of financial constraints. Special efforts are, therefore,
needed to mobilize community resources to initiate and develop
programs for the welfare of the weak and the disadvantaged members
of society.
