Poverty Amid Plenty in the New India

Poverty Amid Plenty in the New India examines India's economic growth and development from the 1980s through the early 2000s. The book analyzes why rapid GDP growth has not translated into broader poverty reduction and economic equality. Kohli investigates India's shift toward a pro-business state and its impacts on different segments of society. The analysis covers policy changes, evolving relationships between government and business interests, and the transformation of India's political economy. Through case studies and economic data, the book tracks how reforms benefited urban and middle-class Indians while often leaving behind rural and poor populations. The research spans multiple Indian states and economic sectors to build a comprehensive picture of development patterns. The work raises fundamental questions about the nature of growth and development in emerging economies, challenging assumptions about how market liberalization affects poverty and inequality.

Readers note this book provides an academic analysis of India's economic growth and persistent poverty through detailed statistics and policy examination. Readers appreciated: - Deep research and data to support arguments - Clear explanations of complex economic policies - Balanced perspective on both successes and failures - Strong historical context for India's development Common criticisms: - Dense academic writing style - Heavy focus on statistics over human stories - Limited discussion of potential solutions - Some repetition between chapters Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (43 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (12 ratings) Sample review quotes: "Thorough analysis but could be more accessible to general readers" - Goodreads reviewer "Excellent data but needed more real-world examples" - Amazon reviewer "Best comprehensive look at India's development paradox" - Journal of Asian Studies review Multiple academic reviewers cited the book's contribution to understanding India's growth-poverty puzzle, while noting its primary appeal is to scholars and economists rather than casual readers.

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📚 Despite India's impressive economic growth since the 1980s, about 80% of Indians still live on less than $2 per day according to the book's findings. 🏛️ Author Atul Kohli is a Princeton University professor who has written extensively about state-directed development in the Global South, with particular expertise in India, Brazil, and South Korea. 💼 The book reveals that India's pro-business (rather than pro-market) policies have favored established large businesses while creating fewer opportunities for small entrepreneurs and workers. 🌍 The research demonstrates that Indian states with better public services and more inclusive growth policies (like Kerala) show significantly better poverty reduction than states focused purely on GDP growth. 📊 Unlike China's growth model, which included substantial rural development, India's growth has been primarily urban-centric, leading to what Kohli terms a "two-track" economy with widening inequality.