About the Book

The book examines the repercussions of the neoliberal development model, uncovering disparities in resource distribution among states and social strata. It scrutinizes the efficacy of existing policies, often deemed arbitrary, ad-hoc, and unsustainable. Exploring diverse aspects of public policy, rural development, socio-economic policies, and democratic decentralization, the volume meticulously analyzes topics such as poverty eradication, rural development programmes, the Backward Classes Movement, and the challenges of decentralization, particularly in the South Indian State – erstwhile Andhra Pradesh. Additionally, it investigates the influence of liberalization on agriculture and forestry policies, presenting a comprehensive overview of regional imbalances and the implementation of local area development schemes.

By incorporating three decades of research papers, this compilation provides policymakers with valuable insights into the effectiveness of development strategies. It facilitates policy reorientation and the identification of implementation gaps, contributing to the discourse on inclusive development. Emphasizing the significance of considering diverse social groups and classes, the volume aims to shape more effective public policies.

Contents

An Introductory Treatise

Section I : State, Marginalized Communities and Development

1. Indian State through the Ages
2. New Economic Policy and Rural Development
3. ‘ADARANA’ Programme and Vote Bank Politics in Andhra Pradesh
4. Political Economy of Rural Development: A Study of IRDP
5. Reorganization of the Districts and the Changing Socio-economic and Political Dynamics in Telangana: An Analysis
6. Victimizing Dalits: An Encounter Story in Palakurthi of Andhra Pradesh
7. Public Policies for Marginalized Communities in India: A Study of Shepherd Community Development Programmes in a South Indian State
8. Development Policies and Displacement of Shepherd Communities in Andhra Pradesh
9. Mapping Backward Class Movements in Andhra Pradesh: Issues and Challenges
10. Decentralization of Education in Andhra Pradesh

Section II: Decentralized Governance and Rural Development

1. Five Decades of Decentralization Process in Andhra Pradesh
2. Decentralized Governance in Andhra Pradesh: A Study of Devolution of Powers, Functions, and Functionaries to Panchayati Raj Institutions
3. Governance of Panchayats in Andhra Pradesh: The Need for Revitalization
4. Dynamics of Administrative Reforms in Panchayati Raj System: A Study of Village Secretariat in Andhra Pradesh
5. Agriculture Strategy for New India: A Study with Special Reference to Telangana State
6. Rural Development and Regional Imbalances: A Study of IRDP
7. Panchayats and Local Area Development Scheme in India
8. Forest and Grazing Policies in Andhra Pradesh: Contestations from Civil Society
9. Srikrishna Committee: Thorough but Unviable

About the Author / Editor

D. Ravinder, a distinguished Professor of Political Science and Vice-Chancellor at Osmania University, Hyderabad, boasts a remarkable career spanning over 32 years, encompassing teaching, research, and administration. His research focus spans the Indian Political Process, Public Policy, Panchayati Raj, and Rural Development, with a prolific output of over 25 research articles in esteemed national and international journals, four edited books, and the completion of UGC research projects.

He is actively engaged in addressing contemporary and socially pertinent issues through newspaper contributions and has been a notable participant in national and international conferences. Dr Ravinder, as Vice-Chancellor, championed a 21-point agenda, prioritizing quality in teaching, research, and innovative administrative practices across the university and affiliated colleges.