Evaluating Large Dams in India

Three positions may be identified in the debate around large dams in India: one, that the huge social costs are paid by one section while the benefits accrue to others; two, that while the concept of large dams is acceptable, there ought to be proper treatment meted out to the environment; three, that there is nothing wrong with big dams. This paper examines these three positions using cost-benefit methodology but including environmental and social implications and touches upon 'alternatives' to big dams.