ABSTRACT
The development strategy of independent India evolved in line with international trends in development thinking, starting with the deliberate neglect of rural areas, balanced approach. Initially, India’s underdevelopment was perceived to reflect a lack of industrialization. With the state playing a dominant role, development strategy inspired by dual economy models focused on rapid capital accumulation in the urban-based, modern industries in a protected environment. After independence, the Indian Punjab pursued a development strategy with a central focus on rural development and urban-based, small-scale industry. The rapid development of Punjab’s agriculture contributed to industrial activity mainly outside the state, by making cheap food, raw materials, savings and a growing market available to India’s modern industrial sector. India’s most successful experiment in rural development in Punjab, with a focus on agricultural development in a conducive institutional frame, supported by adequate socio-economic infrastructure, seems to be going astray. The chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.
