Growth theory and strategy : new direction (unified systems approach to regional and national growth) C.2

This study is an extension of a research project originally sponsored by the Industrial Development Bank of India as a case study of the steel city' of Jamshedpur. It attempts to portray the concrete reality of the forces underlying the inter-linked processes of regional and national economic growth. What emerges from this portrayal is a revised view of the growth process. A reformulation of the growth theory is suggested, not as an abstract model propped up by arti ficial assumptions, but as a realistic depiction of the forces at work behind the growth rate of an economy.
The ideas and theory that we present here are derived strictly from the facts observed. As representations of concrete reality, they are specially helpful in clarifying our notions and evolving practice
oriented concepts. On the basis of the factual analysis, the study identifies certain elements as playing a pivotal role in the growth process. These are subjected to special examination in the perspective of a unified total view of the growth process. The various factors affecting growth are viewed as 'sub-systems' of forces forming part of the larger and comprehensive 'growth system'.
That no realistic theory of economic growth has so far emerged is admitted by many economists. This simply means that the growth process is not yet fully understood and that growth strategies have no sure footing. The present study is a modest attempt to enlarge our understanding in this respect.