Social Expenditures in the Union Budget 1991-96

S Guhan Given the current emphasis on the centre's social sector expenditure, it is important to analyse such expenditure in terms of its dimensions, trends and composition. This paper attempts such an analysis, with data from the last six budgets, giving particular attention to so-called social expenditure of significance to the poor. Further, it explores the available options for making such expenditure more cost-effective and purposeful.