Room for manoeuvre : an exploration of public policy planning in agricultural and rural development.

Much has been written about what policies are applicable to achieve development. There is now a growing cynicism about policies per se because very few have been implemented effectively to achieve the desired result. Through a series of case studies drawn from around the developing world, this book explores the roles of some of the various organizations involved in development, and what might be done to increase their effectiveness.

Common instruments of intervention including the budget, special planning units or cells, targeted programmes, the procedures of project planning and expert reports - are illustrated with case material from Bangladesh, India, Kenya, Mauritius, Sri Lanka and two international agencies, the Asian Development Bank and the International Fund for Agricultural Development. The more general theoretical analysis that shaped and builds upon these case studies also draws upon post-structuralist thought, which is radically influencing ideas on public policy, and the institutions of government and social maintenance in developed industrial societies.

The challenging conclusion of this book is that there is always 'room for manoeuvre' - something else that can be done in a self aware and responsible practice. The book will be especially useful on courses in development studies, development economics, Third World studies, public administration and policy.