The grass-roots political experiences of India and China are examined in this book which highlights the nature of the democratization process, especially the growing demands for participation and the complex power structures interjecting them. In both countries, economic reforms have generated new challenges for local institutions. Contributors use individual case studies as well as comparative perspectives to discuss issues relating to institutional structures and the dynamics of local governance in a changing socioeconomic environment. In addition to the political economy of rural areas, they discuss the roles played by gender, ethnicity and religion in local political processes.