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Digital governance and the reconstruction of the Indian anti-poverty system

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  • Silvia Masiero

Abstract

On a global scale, programmes of social protection for the poor are becoming increasingly computerised, and architectures of biometric recognition are being widely used in this respect. I research how these architectures, adopted in anti-poverty systems, structure ways to ‘see the state’ for citizens living in poverty. To do so I study India’s Public Distribution System (PDS) in Kerala, which is augmenting its main food security scheme with the computerised recognition of its users. In the government’s narrative, biometric technology is depicted as an optimal solution to the illicit diversion of PDS goods on the market. Nevertheless, according to the multiple narratives collected across the state, beneficiaries dispute this view in different ways because of the mixed effects of the new technology on their entitlements under the PDS. The government’s capability to reconstruct its image through digital innovation is thus found to be constrained by citizens’ perceptions derived from their encounters with the new technology of governance.

Suggested Citation

  • Silvia Masiero, 2017. "Digital governance and the reconstruction of the Indian anti-poverty system," Oxford Development Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 45(4), pages 393-408, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:oxdevs:v:45:y:2017:i:4:p:393-408
    DOI: 10.1080/13600818.2016.1258050
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    1. George, P. S. (Poykayil Simon), 1979. "Public distribution of foodgrains in Kerala: income distribution implications and effectiveness," Research reports 7, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI).
    2. Kumar, Shubh K., 1979. "Impact of subsidized rice on food consumption and nutrition in Kerala:," Research reports 5, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI).
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