‘Generative’ or ‘parasitic’ urbanism? Some observations from the recent history of a South Indian market town

Using data from sample surveys in a South Indian market town in 1973 and 1982–3, the paper examines the different views ofMellor andLipton on the relations of small towns and their hinterlands, in the context of a growing agricultural economy. It is shown that the pattern of demand which has been generated by the 'green revolution' has not encouraged decentralised production, as in Mellor's model. It does appear, however, that a net transfer of resources from the countryside to the town, such as Lipton 's model postulates, has been taking place, though the authors remain sceptical about this model as an explanation. Notes Nutrition Policy Unit, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine; and School of Development Studies, University of East Anglia.