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Digital States, Analog Lives: Technocratic Rationality and the Politics of Exclusion in India’s DBT Welfare Regime

In: Technology, Management, and Design for Social Justice

Author

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  • Rejitha Nair

    (Shiv Nadar University, Shiv Nadar School of Law)

  • T. Kannan

    (NALSAR University of Law)

Abstract

India’s Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system—one of the world’s most ambitious digital welfare initiatives—channels subsidies directly into bank accounts via biometric and mobile platforms. While hailed for reducing corruption and improving efficiency, it often imposes new barriers for the poor, elderly, women, and marginalized groups. Fingerprint mismatches, network failures, and banking errors translate into exclusion, routinely dismissed as technical glitches. This chapter argues that DBT represents not mere reform but the rise of technocratic rationality, which prioritizes efficiency and auditability over justice and dignity. Drawing on Weber, Scott, Eubanks, and Morozov, it situates India within global debates on digital welfare and social justice. Comparative cases from Brazil, Estonia, Kenya, and Jamaica reveal that empowerment depends less on technology than on institutional design. The chapter concludes by proposing reforms to reorient digital welfare towards rights, care, and democratic accountability.

Suggested Citation

  • Rejitha Nair & T. Kannan, 2026. "Digital States, Analog Lives: Technocratic Rationality and the Politics of Exclusion in India’s DBT Welfare Regime," Springer Books, in: Latha Poonamallee & Simy Joy & Joanne Scillitoe & Anita Howard & Akhil S.G. (ed.), Technology, Management, and Design for Social Justice, chapter 17, pages 371-389, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-032-20821-7_17
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-20821-7_17
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