This paper evaluates the unique development record of Kerala, India. Despite slow economic growth, the state has experienced unprecedented social growth: increased literacy rates, reduced infant mortality rates, higher life expectancy, and improvements in various other social indicators. The aim of this paper is to examine whether the social expenditures of Kerala are economically sustainable. In order to maintain the current level of social development in Kerala, the state must make adjustments to its policies to focus on equitable economic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Summary: Public participation is generally assumed to be a necessary if not fundamental condition for development. Most studies do not, however, question the kind and level of collective action that would be desirable. This paper provides a novel empirical analysis of the impact of collective action on economic development using data for South India. The paper models collective action as endogenous to economic development and distinguishes between its static and dynamic properties. The results show that while excessive activism may harm state income, collective action in the context of responsible bargaining systems may contribute toward increased economic development. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]