The state has an important role to play in providing agricultural research, infrastructure, education, and social security. Obviously, the ability of the state to play these essential roles depends on the resources at its disposal, and since growth eases the resource constraint, these are more likely to be undertaken if the overall GDP situation is better. As India passes the 1 billion mark, the future of its 350 million poor people hangs in the balance, subject to the decisions of policy leaders. Whether their future will be one of increasing prosperity, food security, and improved quality of life or instead a continuing struggle against grinding poverty depends on the steps decisionmakers take now. Reported by Heidi Fritschel with Uday Mohan.
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