An examination of regional development disparity in india in post-reform period: Wroclaw taxonomic approach

This study aims to examine the changes in the level of development and regional disparity in India during 1991-2017. Using 16 developmental indicators related to health, education, infrastructure and other socio-economic dimensions, the study suggests that a higher PCI does not necessarily ensure a higher level of development. Some states like Haryana and Gujarat have one of the highest PCI levels, but the performance of health, education and other socio economic indicators of development are relatively poor. Contrarily, Kerala and Himachal Pradesh are found to be the two most developed states, but the PCI levels of these two states are not among the highest. Regional disparity, a measure based on the composite index of development, has been increasing over time. The story of Karnataka, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu is exemplary as these states are the model states of development for most of the lowdeveloped states.