Encyclopaedia of Social Development, Law, Policy and Security is a unique attempt by the editor to present to its readers the most vital reading materials on issues of social development, social security, social laws and policies, thus fulfilling the requirements for much awaited publication in this area of research. This Encyclopaedia covers the issues revolving around themes such as work, employment, labour, occupational health and safety. These foremost challenges of the 21st century i.e. social equity and social sustainability are covered to the maximum for the first time in any such publication, including the themes of social rights and social duties in all its manifestations. The initial part of this Encyclopaedia covers the "Global Social Agenda" in an overview format. The next part covers laws and recommendations with respect to employment, unemployment and employment conditions. The conventions on employment policy, employment services and agencies, vocational guidance and training, rehabilitation and employment of disabled persons, and employment security are covered in detail. Next section covers the conventions and recommendations at global level pertaining to employment of children and young persons with special reference to minimum age, night work, medical examination and conditions of employment in underground work. The last section covers the issues, conventions and recommendations regarding social security and benefits. This publication will serve as a complete reference book on all issues related to contemporary global and national social agenda. The encyclopaedia not only provides a background in issues of social relevance but aquaints fully the readers with various laws, policies and action plans in this regard. Therefore it becomes a prized publication both at national and international levels.

Dr. Prabhas C. Sinha obtained M.A., M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. He expertises in the field of Ocean and Antarctic Studies, Environment and Development Studies. He has contributed extensively in Indian and foreign professional journals. He also successfully participated in the international diploma programme on the "Conflict Resolution" at Department of Peace and Conflict Research, Uppsala University, Sweden and worked as the Research Fellow on environment and policy issues at EPAI, East-West Center, Hawaii (USA) leading to his post-doctoral degree. Dr. Sinha was Senior Research Fellow at School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.