Alternatives in Development: Local Politics and NGOs in China and India

This book explores the dynamics of local-level politics in China and India, comparing two different models of local politics and the role of grassroots CSOs and NGOs in shaping development programs and growth.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 24 October 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of local-level politics in China and India, offering a rich and detailed examination of these critical spheres. In 1978, China embarked on a transformative journey by introducing new policies aimed at restructuring local politics. These policies replaced the traditional communes with a novel system that included civil society organizations and cooperatives in villages. This shift marked a significant departure from the past and paved the way for further changes. The introduction of the Organic Law of the Villagers Committees of the People's Republic of China in 1998 brought about yet another wave of reforms, further solidifying the new local power structure. This structure encompasses state-sponsored institutions such as Villagers Committees, as well as traditional civil society organizations (CSOs) and non-government organizations (NGOs).

Similar to China, local politics in India has undergone substantial transformations in recent decades. In 1992, India implemented a constitutional amendment act that aimed to reform Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). This act allowed CSOs and NGOs to operate within the local political landscape, fostering a more inclusive and democratic environment. Against this backdrop, the present book takes on a dual objective. Firstly, it presents two distinct models of local politics, each with its unique characteristics and historical trajectories. Secondly, it engages in a comparative analysis of these models, seeking to identify their similarities, differences, and implications for development. Finally, the book focuses on the two different models of development, exploring how grassroots CSOs and NGOs play a pivotal role in shaping development programs and fostering growth in these two large countries in Asia.

This book is of immense interest to scholars and researchers in the fields of rural governance, rural transformation, and the role of grassroots CSOs and NGOs in shaping development outcomes. It provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between state, civil society, and local communities, shedding light on the strategies employed by governments and non-governmental organizations to address rural challenges and promote sustainable development. By examining the dynamics of local politics in China and India, this book contributes to our understanding of the broader political, social, and economic landscapes of these nations and offers valuable lessons for policymakers and practitioners working in the field of development.

Weight: 344g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811647000
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022