Informal Sector, Migration, and the Beginnings of Structural Transformation

This book explores the role of the informal sector in the economic transformation of India. Focusing on the period 1950-80, it examines the factors that determined the flow of workers from one area to another and considers the impact of migration from rural to urban areas on the expansion of the informal sector. The growth of the informal sector in India is analysed alongside the decline in agriculture and growth of industry and services to show the structural transformation of the Indian economy. Broader issues, such as urban unemployment, fixed wages, education, and entrepreneurship, are also discussed.

This book highlights the links between migration, the informal sector, urbanisation, and economic growth within developing countries. It will be relevant to students and researchers interested in development economics and economic history.

Prabir Bhattacharya is an economist affiliated to both Glasgow and Heriot-Watt Universities. He is editor-in-chief of the Journal of Interdisciplinary Economics and was formerly editor-in-chief of the Progress in Development Studies. He has taught at various universities including the University College London, University of Edinburgh, Yokohama National University, Kobe University and the University of Science and Technology Beijing.