Civil Society and Democratization in Indiaassesses whether civil society promotes democratization as has been argued implicitly or explicitly in the development discourse. The author develops a distinctive theoretical framework on civil society and makes use of extensive empirical material and case studies. The detailed empirical analysis of three NGOs in India documents the ideological, institutional, and policy changes of these organizations and also their engagement with the state over the years. The book argues that "actually existing" civil society is an arena of contestation, that it is in itself highly differentiated, and that its character is influenced by the existing socio-historical and political context. Thus, civil society does not exist independently of the state, and state and civil society are intrinsically inter-related. Civil society organizations may or may not have positive implications in regard to democratization and the functioning of democracy. Employing a unique multidisciplinary perspective, the author draws on research from sociology, political science, anthropology and development studies. The book delivers new insights on NGOs, democratization, civil society, the state, political society, tribal politics, politics of Hindu Nationalism, international development aid and grassroots social movements in India. It will enable readers understand better the multifaceted nature of civil society, its relationship with the state, and its implications for development and democratization.