No universally applicable theory of development'

Mangalore, October 18: Economic growth and development still remain something of a mystery as there is no universally applicable model or theory of development, said Dr. GV Joshi, Professor of Economics, JKSHIM, Nitte.

He was presenting a paper on 'Economic Development: Enduring or Inclining?' in the first session of 'Samprathi-2011' a two-day national seminar on 'sustainable development: towards a self-reliant India' organised by St Aloysius College (Autonomous), here on Tuesday.

“We have to learn from all theories without accepting anyone of them in Toto. There is no consensus on what works for growth and development. There is no clear way to ease poverty. Growth or development is purely a subjective phenomenon. In face there is a need for rethinking development economics”, he said.

“The thought on development has passed through five stages. Now the accent has shifted from the mere dynamics of growth to include the institutions to deliver the benefits of growth to the poor and the disadvantaged. Precisely, this is the institutions to deliver the benefits of growth to the poor and the disadvantaged. Precisely, this is the stage in which the concept of inclusive growth has gained a lot of currency”, he said.

Dr Joshi said that there are empirical studies establishing the relation between economic growth and reduction in poverty. One empirical study (2009) indicates that Cambodia, India, Mongolia and the Philippines from a category of countries in which economic growth failed to help many who are poor. There is a realization that growth will generally be not pro-poor if left completely to markets, he said.

“Economic growth or development has to become enduring and sustainable by ameliorating the condition of the poor and the marginalized sections of the society. Growth should be fair and just, employment-oriented and environment friendly, not ruthless, rootless, voiceless and futureless. Specific policy measures are needed to make economic development enduring and sustainable because as things stand today, it is inclining and exclusive”, he added.

The programme was be inaugurated by Ramakrishna Y B, Executive Chairman, Karnataka State Biofuel Development Board, Bangalore.

Fr Joseph Ignatius Rodrigues SJ, Rector, St. Aloysius Institution, Mangalore presided over the function.

Dr. H. Sudarshan, Director, Karuna Trust & VGKK, Bangalore, delivered keynote address.