The book traces the roots of economic liberalization to the early 90s, and follows India's subsequent economic progress, which has been marked by remarkable ups and downs. The author dissects the nature and effects of India's economic policies, focusing on certain key events that have played a crucial role in India's overall growth. His logical and critical reasoning debunks various myths and highlights several positive aspects of the Indian economy. The book speaks not only from a national and a global perspective, but also from an individual perspective. It discusses what is required from individuals to cement India's economic success. In an era where global economies are crumbling and recession is proving to be a continued threat, the author outlines the steps people must take to counter these testing times. He stresses on the need for a resourceful attitude as opposed to a merely reflective one.

Bimal Jalan, former Reserve Bank of India governor and Rajya Sabha MP places India's post-Independence strengths and weakness under a microscope and analyses the last four decades of India's economic journey, which saw the nation's transition from a strictly regulated, slow-growth, state-led enterprise to one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Dr Jalan has had a ringside view of financial governance during his long and distinguished career. Drawing on this vast experience he compares two distinct periods-1980-2000 and 2000-15-to examine the core changes and their significance, and considers their lessons for the immediate future. Dr Jalan suggests measures to improve governance which, if implemented, could make India one of the fastest growing emerging global powers and ensure that the benefits of economic growth reach all her people.

Bimal Jalan has closely followed the path of India’s economic policies across its changing trajectories, from before the time the economy was liberalized to the present. The pieces in Emerging India study the relationship between political and economic reforms and inclusive and incremental growth.