Labor, democratization and development in India and Pakistan

In this first comparative study of organized labour in India and Pakistan, the author analyses the impact and role of organized labour in the political and economic development of these two countries. Beginning with the early twentieth century, when permanent unions first formed in the South Asian sub-continent, it provides a unique comparative history of Indian and Pakistani labour politics. Additionally, it offers an analysis of changes in conditions of work and terms of service in India and Pakistan and of organized labours' response. Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are also discussed for further comparative clarification throughout the text. The conclusions shed new light on the impact of organized labour in the field of national politics, economic policy, economic welfare and the situation at the workplace-level. It is demonstrated that the protection of workers has desirable outcomes not only for those workers covered but also for democratic practice and for economic development. (Source: www.alibris.com)