The 'Green Revolution' and Labour Absorption in Bangladesh Agriculture: The Relevance of the East Asian Experience

Abstract

The bulk of analytic/empiricalliterature following the 'Green Revolution' contends that agricultural labour absorption in most, if not all, contemporary Asian countries is likely to follow the historical pattern of East Asia, especially Taiwan and Japan. This paper examines the relevance of East Asian experience for increased labour intensity in agriculture in Bangladesh in the post-'Green Revolution' period. Using labour coefficient data for a wide range of crops, the analysis is carried out on an annual basis as well as for crop seasons. Observed pauerns are analysed and likely determinants are identified. The findings of the paper indicate limited relevance of the East Asian experience to Bangladesh, and highlight for South Asia the importance of examining seasonal differences in labour absorption.