Poverty, Policy and Politics in Madras Slums: Dynamics of Survival, Gender and Leadership

"This book provides a critical but balanced account of the process and impact of urban policy and planning in a developing country like India. It is grounded on the premise that an integral understanding of all dimensions of urban poverty–linking socio-economic, cultural, political and administrative factors–is essential for the formulation of meaningful urban policies. The author utilises a multi-level analysis combining anthropological techniques with an understanding of political factors to outline the many elements that prevent the effective implementation of policies aimed at the urban poor. These range from a multiplicity of agencies and chronic shortage of funds, to corruption and political interference.