Essays in development economics

This thesis, submitted for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Economics, investigates three critical areas affecting development programs, governance, and the political economy in India: the impact of women’s education on domestic violence, the effects of criminally accused politicians (CAPs) on crime rates, and the influence of financial investments in Development Assistance (DA) programs on the quality of political candidates. The first chapter uses the 2015-16 Demographic Health Survey data to explore the effects of the District Primary Education Program on domestic violence against women, finding substantial reductions in various forms of domestic violence attributed to enhanced educational attainment among women and shifts in gender attitudes. The second chapter identifies a troubling escalation in crime rates within constituencies governed by criminally accused politicians, underlining a concerning relationship between political characteristics and law enforcement efficacy. The third chapter assesses the unintended consequences of large financial projects, such as World Bank-funded development assistance projects, in adversely selecting political candidates with criminal backgrounds, offering insights into how financial governance could potentially refine political selection and improve candidate quality. Overall, this thesis contributes to a broader understanding of the interplay between educational advancements, the political environment, and economic policies in shaping the economic and social landscapes of developing economies, with a specific focus on India’s challenges and opportunities.