An Alternative Development Agenda for India

"This book is unique because an economist who has worked in both the public and private sectors has addressed the Gandhian question of how to ‘keep the poor at the centre’. The book, written in a reader-friendly style, shows us how the poor and most vulnerable face the brunt of failures due to too many hurriedly designed Government schemes, poor service quality of everything from toilets to schools, and a rigid bureaucratic mindset that tends to exclude the reality of the over-worked and underpaid poor families. The real strength of the book however is the recommendations in each chapter which show us that there is a practical and common-sense way to improve what already exists and to ensure that necessary services reach those who need them. And importantly, the author answers the nay-sayers by demonstrating how a people-centred approach is financially feasible."

Renana Jhabvala, Padma Shri, Well known social worker, Chairperson Sewa Bharat.

"Sanjay Kaul has seen the challenges of development in all its complexity at ground level. He has come up with a thoughtful and innovative agenda for meeting them which he articulates and makes immediate through the lives of a typical impoverished family. His wisdom is really worth imbibing."

Arvind Subramanian, Senior Fellow, Brown University, and former Chief Economic Adviser, Government of India

"Sanjay Kaul’s book is scholarly yet eminently readable, brutally honest but always optimistic, an indictment, and a clarion call for change. The book is a tour de force that deserves to be read carefully by elected leaders, policy makers, and concerned citizens."

Ashok Alexander, Founder-Director, Antara Foundation, and former India Country Director, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation