Patterns of Regional Disparities and Spatial Development in India

Regional disparity refers to the uneven distribution of socio-economic opportunities, infrastructure, and wealth across India's geographical space. This phenomenon is a major constraint on equitable development, necessitating targeted spatial planning and policy intervention to promote balanced growth.

Dimensions and Geographical Roots

Disparity Dimension

Geographical Pattern/Concentration

Key Economic Indicator/Data

Underlying Geographical Cause

Economic

High GSDP/Capita in Western/Southern States (e.g., Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu).

High share in Manufacturing and Services sectors; lower poverty ratios.

Proximity to coast/ports, better soil/irrigation, and early industrialisation post-independence.

Social/Human Development

Lower Human Development Index (HDI) scores in Northern/Eastern States (e.g., Bihar, UP, MP).

Poor performance in education, health (IMR, MMR), and gender equality metrics.

Historical lack ....

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