This holistic companion to the readers interested in principles and scope of rural development illustrates its need and importance for the economic growth and progress of nation-states. The author gives an exhaustive account of the various sectors and actors of rural development and presents it as a multidimensional concept by documenting its different components.

The book will help its readers to understand the theoretical background of how rural development functions as well as guide them on dealing with the many practical problems encountered in the formulation of rural development policies and programmes. It will be useful to UG and PG students of rural development, UPSC and civil services aspirants as well as planners and policymakers working in the field of rural development.