The book emphasises the need for specific solutions with respect to formulation and execution of policies at local level supported by the state or national government to address regional development problems. It deals with some local and regional dimensions of contemporary concern, approaching the issues with a modern perspective. With special reference to the East and North-east India especially the states of West Bengal and Sikkim, it takes up issues like rural development through customary Panchayats, impact of economic reforms on rural micro-enterprises, foreign direct investment in multi-brand retail and modern industrialisation vs Agro forestry. It examines the contribution of specific banks and groups like the chit funds.