Political leadership has been studied by scholars from different perspectives. In this paper the role played by the political leaders in economic development has been studied in order to   highlight some new leadership dimensions which have not yet been explored adequately. The conceptual paradigm for this study drawn from the theory of Collective Goods (Frohlich, Oppenheimer, Young 1971), Game Theory (Brams 2004) and Anthony Downs’ ‘An Economic Theory of Democracy’ (Downs 1956).   These concepts help us in understanding why most of the leaders adopt generally transactional leadership approach rather than transformational style due to electoral compulsions. The role of political leaders has been studied with the help of Esther Cameron and Mike Green’s five-fold role model which has been elucidated in their work. With the substantiation of data relating to the economic development under taken by the MLAs through MLA Lad utilization, it has been suggested that a political leader through a role-mix can prove his effectiveness and ensure electoral success in a sustainable manner.  

Brams S.J. (2004), Game Theory and Politics, New York.

Cameron E. and Green M. (2009), Making Sense of Leadership: Exploring the five key roles used by effective leaders, London.

Downs A. (1956), An Economic Theory of Democracy, New York.

Elgie R. (1995), Political Leadership in Liberal Democracies, London,1995.

Frohlich N., Oppenheimer J.A. and Young O.R. (1971),Political Leadership and Collective goods, New Jersey.

Olson, Jr. M. (1965), The Logic of Collective Action, Cambridge.

Rost Joseph C. (1991), Leadership for the Twenty-First Century, New York.

Letter No 13045 dt.18.12.2020 of Planning and Convergence Department, Government of Odisha.

Rules and Procedures for sanction of MLALAD Funds (1997) issued by the Planning and Convergence Department, Govt. of Odisha.