Industry, Agriculture and rural development

The economic development in India is largely dependent on the development of agriculture as about 65 per cent of its population is engaged in agriculture and about 40 per cent of its national income is generated in the agricultural sector. Since agriculture is the major producing sector in the economy it influences the performance of other sectors. The author, a renowned economist, writes with authority on the subject and gives data to support his argument that agriculture should be treated as an industry. This will promote exports. He also stresses that an increase in agricultural output results in higher purchasing power among the rural households. This creates an additional demand for manufacturing prc ducts. Further, development of industry depends not only on raw materials but also on the demand for its products in the agricultural sector. At the end of the book, he gives a brief summary of some aspects of the Soviet agricultural scene to allow for comparison.

The book is different from other books in respect of contents and style: the author gives his own interpretations of data and goes on to suggest measures to improve the prevailing conditions in the agricultural and industrial sectors. It is extensively researched and a valuable book for the experts.