Though development raised the level and quality of life, yet it is criticized for the social and ecological cost that had be bear by some section of society.

The model of development has also had high social costs:

a. Large number of people have been displaced from their homes and localities due to construction of big dams, industrial activity etc

b. Loss of livelihood and increased impoverishment.

c. Rural communities are displaced from their traditional occupation.

d. Traditional skill acquired over period are lost.

Example: Narmada Bachao Andolan, against Sardar Sarovar Dam the supporters of this project claims that it will generate electricity, help irrigate areas and provide drinking water. But the opponents of the dam claimed that almost 1 million people have displaced, they have lost their lands.

Ecological Costs:

a. Development requires energy and which is major cause of environmental degradation.

b. Consumption of fossil fuels to meet the demands of energy also deplete the natural resources.

c. The development of industries and motor vehicles in huge numbers have contributed to high level of pollution and significantly to global warming that has caused melting of icebergs and hence increase in level of sea water.

d. Development has led to deforestation, whose aftermath is green house of effect.

Example : when south and south east countries were hit of tsunami, it was observed that destruction of mangroves along the shoreline was the reason for greater extent of damaged caused.