Perspectives from India : theoretical contributions to development discourse

Abstract

Institutionalized development theory has existed for sixty years. Throughout this time, two paradigmatic frameworks and a myriad of theories based on an eclectic number of principles, concept, models, and frameworks have emerged to offer explanations of development problems and development dynamics. This paper explores the conceptual and theoretical development models which have originated from India. Three eminent Indian scholars were chosen as the case studies to place under analytical scrutiny to succinctly posit an answer to the thesis question. With the connecting features underlying the works of the three case studies, it is discovered that the area of human development is the most appropriate label for the similar viewpoints which surface from academic Indian development circles. The implications and their consequences are discussed to understand the relationship between the theoretical and practical levels of development and the micro-scale to the larger development picture affecting the human condition worldwide.