Review of book 'India in the Debates of the French Parliament (1945-1988)' in the Economic Times, New Delhi...shared by K J S Chatrath

 

                  THE ECONOMIC TIMES NEW DELHI SUNDAY 11 SEPTEMBER 1994

Indo-French ties
 

'CHATRATH has attempted in this book to explain the rationale behind the interest exhibited by French parliamentarians in India.

Among the reasons cited by the author are the "bonds of an erstwhile colonial power with her old colonies", France's desire to be projected as a "champion of Third World causes", and the "strong, cul- tural interests and connections" between the two coun- tries. 

One would tend to agree with the French belief that economic relations between two countries can be built through the "assistance of culture". Chatrath has delved deep into French parliamentary records to present a representative reproduction of material like reports of parliamentary delegations to India, questions relating to India posed by MP's and their answers, and speeches.

The book will be helpful for researchers looking for material on this rather off-beat subject.
India in the Debates of the French Parliament (1945-1988), KJS Chatrath, Indian Publishers & Distributors, Rs 450.'