Citizens within the same rural communities exhibit strikingly different approaches to seeking social welfare from the state, despite similar living conditions.

Exposure Builds State Awareness

This article presents a novel theory explaining this variation: claim-making is significantly influenced by exposure beyond one's immediate community. Contact with diverse places and people expands citizens' understanding of the state and strengthens their connections to it.

Methodology in Rural Rajasthan

Drawing on original survey data and qualitative interviews from rural Rajasthan, I test this argument. The findings reveal a strong correlation between traversing boundaries (caste, neighborhood, village) and increased likelihood of making formal claims against the state.

Broader Action Repertoires

Citizens with broader exposure also utilize more varied strategies to engage with government services compared to those confined within traditional social networks. This highlights how geographical movement can enhance citizens' political agency.

Theory Limitations Considered

Finally, I discuss the theoretical implications and limitations of this framework regarding citizen-state relations in developing democracies.