Parthasarathi Shome Bücher

This volume brings together research on development in three major areas of contemporary global relevance: agriculture and food security, energy, and the institutions of national innovation. Covering six of the largest emerging and developing economies (EDEs) in the world, three Asian (China, India and Malaysia), two Latin American (Brazil and Mexico), and one African (South Africa), the book offers insights on how the major EDEs have addressed the complex and increasingly interrelated issues of agricultural growth, food security and access to energy as part of their growth and development experience over the last three decades. Underscoring the broader view of institutions of national innovation capacities, the volume presents the role of domestic policy and macroeconomic fluctuations in shaping the innovation capacities and development policy in these countries. The book is divided into three main parts. Part I addresses agriculture and food security, while Part II focuses on the energy sector, including the importance of clean energy and energy efficiency in improving access. Parts I and II also cover the role of the major sector-specific innovations for increasing productivity and growth. Subsequently, Part III examines the importance of economy-wide institutions of innovation in the context of supporting growth and development.

The analysis delves into the complex relationship between poverty in India and historical factors such as caste, untouchability, colonialism, and forms of servitude like indentured labor and slavery. It explores how these elements have shaped contemporary social and economic conditions, highlighting the enduring impact of historical injustices on modern practices and the ongoing struggle against poverty.

The textbook addresses the disconnect between tax practitioners and theorists, particularly in emerging economies where local taxation history is often overlooked. It explores the rationale and principles of taxation, highlighting common errors and the impact of taxes on consumer choices and production decisions. Key principles such as efficiency, equity, stabilization, revenue productivity, administrative feasibility, and international neutrality are thoroughly discussed, emphasizing the importance of minimizing market distortions and maintaining a progressive tax structure.