Since the birth of Bangladesh in December 1971, successive governments have adopted the orthodox economic policies advocated by aid donors and international agencies. But, this book shows that poverty and inequality have increased, largely because governments lacked stability and authority.

This book explains the macro-drivers of growth behind the economic development of Bangladesh. Few countries in the developing world have shown as exciting a promise of economic prosperity as Bangladesh. The promising nature of the Bangladeshi economy raises interesting questions pertaining to whether good governance may lead to sustained economic growth. This book looks at the strategic interventions on macro-level, specifically the policy interventions. This book will be a useful reference to making sense how economic transformation can be strengthened through state-sponsored activities and how states can inculcate a culture of innovation which can be regarded as one of the underpinnings of economic growth.

Papers presented at an International Seminar on Rural Development in Bangladesh, 15-17 January 1992 held at BARD, Comilla.