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Evolution of Land Distribution in West Bengal 1967-2004: Role of Land Reform and Demographic Changes

Author

Listed:
  • Dilip Mookherjee

    (Department of Economics, Boston University)

  • Pranab Bardhan

    (University of California, Berkeley)

  • Michael Luca

    (Department of Economics, Boston University)

  • Francisco Pino

    (Department of Economics, Boston University)

Abstract

This paper uses recall data from a household survey to evaluate the roles of land reforms and demographic changes in explaining changes in land distribution in West Bengal between 1967-2004. The direct role of the land reforms was insignificant relative to household division, migration and land market transactions. We develop a model of how household division and market transactions are affected by demographic changes and land reforms, and find the evidence consistent with these predictions. However the tenancy registration program did not significantly reduce inequality, while the land title program reduced inequality by reducing landlessness directly.

Suggested Citation

  • Dilip Mookherjee & Pranab Bardhan & Michael Luca & Francisco Pino, 2010. "Evolution of Land Distribution in West Bengal 1967-2004: Role of Land Reform and Demographic Changes," Boston University - Department of Economics - Working Papers Series WP2010-037, Boston University - Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:bos:wpaper:wp2010-037
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • J12 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Marriage; Marital Dissolution; Family Structure
    • O13 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Agriculture; Natural Resources; Environment; Other Primary Products
    • O13 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Agriculture; Natural Resources; Environment; Other Primary Products

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