Since the introduction of economic reforms in India in early 1990s, the major thrust of the country has been to achieve faster economic growth, higher export earnings, greater foreign exchange reserves, and enhanced foreign direct investment. Enormous efforts have been directed towards achieving the desired goals in all these macro-economic parameters.

While it is heartening to note the accomplishments at the macro-economic front, it is equally disturbing to note that the enhanced rate of economic growth has failed to address certain issues of vital importance. These issues and concerns include, inter alia, the dynamics of labour market, progress of the agriculture sector, gender equality, caste representations,  cultural development and environmental protection.

Given the above, the present book, containing 16 articles authored by experts in the field, attempts to make a critical scrutiny of various strategic aspects of India’s development efforts during the post-reforms period. The book is divided into three broad theme parts: (i) economic reforms and social sectors, (ii) women, labour and socio-cultural perspectives and (iii) management of natural resources and environmental protection.

The book will commend itself to academicians, researchers, policy makers, social activists, and students of economics, commerce and business management. It will also prove useful for all those who want to understand the nature and impact of economic reforms in India.

      Narayan C Nayak is Associate Professor of Economics in the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur. He works in the field of Social Sector Development, Rural and Agricultural Economics, and Foreign Direct Investment.

     Kishor Goswami is Assistant Professor of Economics in the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur. His areas of interest include Agricultural Economics, Food Security, Poverty, Gender Studies and Finance.

Bani Chatterjee is Professor of Economics and Head, Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur. Her areas of research include Development Economics, Environmental Economics, Manpower Management and International Finance.