UNEQUAL: WHY INDIA LAGS BEHIND ITS NEIGHBOURS

UNEQUAL: WHY INDIA LAGS BEHIND ITS NEIGHBOURS

Unequal is a compelling and deeply researched exploration of why India, despite its remarkable economic growth, continues to lag behind many of its South Asian neighbours on key measures of human development. Combining immersive fieldwork, rigorous data analysis and powerful human stories, Swati Narayan examines inequality, public policy and social justice while offering a hopeful vision for a more equitable future.

📖 About the Book

Based on five years of research across India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka, Unequal investigates why several of India's less affluent neighbours perform better on crucial social indicators such as healthcare, education, nutrition, sanitation and women's participation in the workforce.

Swati Narayan reveals how decades of land reforms, investments in public health and education, and social movements aimed at reducing caste and gender inequalities have transformed lives in neighbouring countries. In contrast, India continues to grapple with persistent challenges including child malnutrition, preventable deaths, illiteracy, gender discrimination and widening economic disparities.

The book also highlights inspiring examples from Indian states such as Tamil Nadu and Kerala, demonstrating that meaningful social transformation is possible through sustained investment in public welfare and inclusive policymaking. Rich with personal narratives, comparative analysis and evidence-based insights, Unequal presents a thought-provoking roadmap for building a fairer society.

✨ Key Highlights

• Based on extensive research conducted across four South Asian countries.
• Explores inequality through healthcare, education, nutrition and social development.
• Examines how public policy and social reforms shape long-term national progress.
• Combines compelling human stories with detailed research and statistical evidence.
• Highlights successful development models from Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Indian states.
• An insightful read for anyone interested in public policy, economics, social justice and development.

✍️ About the Author

Swati Narayan is an academic, researcher and activist whose work focuses on inequality, public policy and social development. She is an alumna of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) and the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).

Her research and opinion pieces have appeared in leading national and international publications including The Indian Express, The Hindu, The Telegraph, Hindustan Times, The Guardian, Prospect and Economic and Political Weekly. She currently lives in Haryana and Delhi.

📚 Why Read This Book?

Unequal is an essential read for policymakers, students, researchers and anyone interested in understanding the forces shaping modern India. Blending rigorous scholarship with accessible storytelling, the book offers valuable insights into inequality, governance and social progress while presenting a hopeful vision for creating a more just and inclusive society.