Institutional aspects of agricultural development ; India from Asian perspective

The present volume is a collection of twelve research papers and reflective essays written in recent years: they relate to the broad theme of institutional aspects of agricultural development in India from the Asian perspective. In the context of the present debate on alternatives in development, the present volume is very timely; the institutional approach and the concern with the problems of peasant agriculture which constitute the main focus of these studies have much greater rele vance now than ever before.

The structural questions relating to alternative paths of development and change, which require an interdisciplinary approach and grassroots observation and interaction are not receiving enough attention in economic research. This volume draws attention to the importance of scientific enquiry on the future of small peasant agriculture and its growth potential in the era of scientific agriculture. The key issue is: Can latecomer Asian nations adapt modern technology and institutions and evolve alternative development strategies for transforming the small peasants into growth agents? The insights and findings of this volume are of deep interest as much to students of Indian agricultural development as planners and policy makers.