Synopsis In a society where major segment of the population lives in villages, rural development must be much emphasised. Panchayats are the oldest institution at village level since times immemorial devoted to govern the village administration and welfare. This book brings together Govt.'s efforts and policies for rural development and poverty alleviation. Employment and poverty alleviation: issues and options; Rural Development; Special component plan and tribal development planning; and wasteland development like topics are elaborately discussed herein supported by facts and figures.