GANDHI, TRIBES AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

Book Details

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• Author: Tilak Bagchi (Ed.)

• Language: English

• Edition: 2023

• ISBN: 9788131612842

• Pages: 204

• Cover: Hardcover

About the Book

Mahatma Gandhi’s enduring vision for India’s development centered on its villages, rural communities, and tribal societies. He firmly believed that the soul of India resides in its villages and advocated that the country’s true progress lies in strengthening rural economies, fostering traditional skills, and improving local industry. Gandhi’s concern for the well-being of the Adivasis (tribal populations) was equally profound, urging their integration and upliftment in the broader narrative of Indian development.

This thoughtfully curated volume brings together diverse scholarly perspectives on the relevance and impact of Gandhian philosophy on rural and tribal development. Released in the backdrop of Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary celebrations, the book includes insightful essays from scholars and activists across disciplines. These contributions examine the practical and ideological relevance of Gandhian models in the context of rural reconstruction, tribal welfare, entrepreneurship, education, Swachh Bharat Mission, and socio-economic justice.

The 16 chapters included explore themes such as Gandhi’s views on post-modernity, leadership, protest and reconstruction, tribal rights, and rural entrepreneurship. Of special interest are empirical case studies, such as the role of Gandhian organizations in Paschim Medinipur district and rural development initiatives inspired by Gandhian thought.

About the Editor
Dr. Tilak Bagchi, a respected anthropologist and retired officer of the Anthropological Survey of India, holds MSc and PhD degrees from the University of Calcutta. His career spans roles with ICAR, ICMR, the Directorate of Census Operations, and the All India Institute of Hygiene and Public Health. He has authored/co-authored over eight books, 65 research papers, and 25 book reviews. Recipient of the prestigious Presidential Silver Medal for his contributions to the 2011 Census, Dr. Bagchi has presented papers in numerous national and international seminars and led multiple exhibitions and tribal sub-plan (TSP) programs across India.