Fiscal policy in underdeveloped countries : with special reference to India

The central thesis of this important book is an application of recent advances in the theory of fiscal policy to the promotion of economic development, while at the same time diminish ing inequalities. The author demonstrates, with out resorting to esoteric arguments obscure to the general reader, why advanced and under developed countries need different policies, and thereby makes a distinct contribution to fiscal theory.

The book will be of interest to those con cerned with the theory of public finance, to those responsible for practical policy, and par ticularly to economists working in under developed areas. What makes it very topical is the growing awareness of economic problems in general, and in particular the desire, noticeable of late in all these countries, to employ taxation in the service of economic development. India is a notable case, which Dr. Chelliah handles on the basis of his own study, research and personal experience. He analyses and evaluates the recommendations of the Indian Taxation Enquiry Commission (1953 54) and those in Mr. Kaldor's recent report to the Indian Government.

Dr. Chelliah, formerly on the Economics staff of the Madras Christian College, was a Fulbright scholar at the University of Pitts burgh, where the present study was completed. He is now an economist on the staff of the National Council of Applied Economic Re search, New Delhi.