Tale of a City – Greater Noida: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relevance and application of the Rostow’s five stages of growth theory to the emergence and development of the Greater Noida city. The paper also debates whether rapid industrialization of this city emanates increased socio-economic security of the residents. The study uses Qualitative methods to explain the perceived socio-economic security of the residents in a sub-urban area of Greater Noida, which has undergone a shift in the structure of its major economic activities. Interview questions related to social protection, employment, income, poverty, healthcare, education, demography, and economic policy were analysed in the light of Rostow’s growth stages of economy using Content Analysis (Diction 7.1.3 Version) and Thematic Coding. Thematic coding of 20 interviews yielded four major themes, which revolved around socio-economic development, industrial and infrastructural development, environment degradation, hardships, and exploitation. The sentiment analysis through Diction 7.1.3 revealed scores for 20 interviews in terms of master variables like certainty, optimism, activity, realism and commonality which were well with-in the range. The calculated variables like insistence, variety, embellishment and complexity were also in the range specified. This research paper can help the policy-makers to take into account the sentiments while formulating these policies.