This volume traces India’s developmental strategies and governance systems from state-led to market-driven models over seven decades, highlighting the disconnect between the values enshrined in the Constitution and the governance of policies. It examines a broad spectrum of development approaches addressing deeply entrenched socio-economic issues including poverty, unemployment, food insecurity, inequalities, agriculture, technology, pandemics, marginalized communities, people's participation, decentralized governance, and the challenges in socio-economic program implementation.

Underscoring that policies require a clear purpose and trustworthy governance systems for empowering the marginalized, it points out that failures are primarily at the policy level due to a lack of ideological clarity, spurred by growth and welfare dilemmas. The volume further provides insights into India’s development and social transformation and serves as a resource for those engaged in the study or practice of policy-making.

This book is particularly valuable for students and researchers of development studies, economics, political economy, public policy, political studies, sociology, governance, and South Asian studies.