Q. What is regional disparity? How does it differ from diversity? How serious is the issue of regional disparity in India?

Model Answer:

Regional Disparity

Regional disparity refers to the uneven distribution of economic development, social progress, and infrastructure across different regions within a country. It is characterized by significant differences in key indicators such as per capita income, literacy rates, healthcare access, and industrialization levels between various areas of a nation.

Regional disparity differs from diversity in several important ways:

• Diversity encompasses the natural variety of cultures, languages, traditions, and resources across regions. It is often viewed as a positive attribute that enriches a nation’s identity.
• Disparity, on the other hand, represents an economic and social challenge stemming from uneven development. It is generally seen as a problem that needs to be addressed for balanced national growth.

The issue of regional disparity in India is particularly serious due to its scale and persistence:

1. Economic disparities:
• Stark differences in per capita income between states (e.g., Goa’s per capita income is nearly four times that of Bihar)
• Uneven industrial development, with western and southern states generally more industrialized than eastern and central regions

2. Social disparities:
• Significant variations in literacy rates (e.g., Kerala at over 90% vs. Bihar at around 70%)
• Disparities in health indicators such as infant mortality rates and life expectancy across states

3. Infrastructure gaps:
• Concentration of major industrial corridors in western and southern India
• Uneven distribution of quality education institutions and healthcare facilities

The seriousness of this issue is further underscored by its consequences:
• Increased migration pressures from less developed to more developed regions
• Social tensions arising from perceived inequalities
• Political challenges in resource allocation and policy implementation
• Overall hindrance to balanced national development

Factors contributing to regional disparity in India include historical legacies, geographical constraints, and policy implications. The government has attempted to address this issue through various measures such as granting special category status to some states and implementing centrally sponsored schemes for balanced regional development.

In conclusion, regional disparity remains a critical challenge for India, impacting its social fabric and economic progress. Addressing this issue is crucial for achieving inclusive growth and ensuring equitable development across all regions.