Bringing together contributions from leading scholars, this volume examines the singularly innovative strategy that has been dubbed the ""Karnataka Model"" of development - one fueled by technological growth and local government reform. Founded 50 years ago, the Indian state of Karnataka has come to embody the challenges and contradictions inherent in a country where gender inequality and regional disparities abound. This collection of astute observations and perspectives provides researchers and policy makers worldwide with invaluable lessons on the trials all rapidly growing nations would be wise to study.