Document Type
Article
Department
Economics
Publication Date
1-1-2022
Abstract
This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the effect of an affirmative action policy on the quality of candidates using political quotas in India. Using the latest data and a regression discontinuity design, I find the caste quotas lead to political candidates with different attributes: lower wealth, lower criminal charges, and increased representation of women, but similar education levels. I find no significant difference in the level of public goods in rural India between quota-bound and non-quota-bound areas. The results suggest an increase in political diversity with no negative effects on the provision of basic facilities.
Publication Title
Eastern Economic Journal
ISSN
00945056
DOI
10.1057/s41302-022-00209-y
Comments
Author's post-print/accepted manuscript. The full text will become available after a one year embargo from publication date per publishers' policies.
Published version available:
https://doi.org/10.1057/s41302-022-00209-y