Surge: Tamil Nadu's growth story by Sushila Ravindranath - Book Review by Priyanga R Annadurai
The author Sushila Ravindranath has structured the book in such a manner where one could follow up the growth of Tamil Nadu from an economic angle.
"Tamil Nadu much to the consternation of many economists, initiated bold social programmes such as universal midday meals in primary schools and started putting in place an extensive social infrastructure - schools, health centres, roads, public transport, water supply, electricity connections, and much more. Thi was not jut a reflection of kind-heartedness on the part of the ruling elite, byt an outcome of democratic politics, including organied public pressure."- Amartya Sen, An Uncertain Glory: India and its Contradictions.
Structure of the Book - Surge: Tamil Nadu's growth story
The author has structured the book in such a manner where one could follow up the growth of Tamil Nadu from an economic angle. But it is not in a direct linear fashion as one might expect. The author has put up efforts to cover the wide subject by focussing on the business enterprises which had been the backbone of the growth of the state. She has been impartial to a very large extent - as she mentions the pioneers, leaders and success stories; she didnot fail to equally call out the disasters and failures.
The author cover the industrial boom of Tamil Nadu by categorising them as arch conservative - family group run businesses, individual run businesses, IT industries, clusters, etc. The separate chapter on the Wonder city - Coimbatore, is a justice done. The rags to riches stories from Tiruppur and and small towns of similar sorts makes us wonder.
Instead of just mentioning the enterprises and their factual history, she has meticulouly pointed out various nitty-gritties like the origin of the enterpreneurial idea, their rough and tough times, how they had overcame it, etc. This book could infact serve well for the budding enterpries beyond Tamil Nadu.
Last but not the least, the author has done justice to the readers starting from the old family of Murugappa group to the recent budders a Zoho and Magzter.
The book is also available in Tamil under the name - "Paayum Thamizhagam" translated by S.Krishnan.
About the Book - Surge: Tamil Nadu's growth story
Total number of Pages: 305
Price: Rs. 494 (English) | Rs. 382 (Tamil)
About the Author - Sushila Ravindranath
Sushila Ravindranath is a Journalist/columnist with over 30 years in business journalism. She began her career with Business India in Mumbai in the 80s, before moving to Chennai a few years later. As Bureau chief, South, she was involved in the company's foray into television and other ventures.
About the Blogger - Priyanga R Annadurai
I am Priyanga R Annadurai, an IAS officer of the 2021 batch borne to Tamil Nadu cadre.