Income inequalities and its association with Socio-Economic indicators in Karnataka: A Sub-District level analysis

In the present study, an attempt has been made to find the regional imbalances of Karnataka state, taking taluks as the unit of study. Inter-taluk imbalances have been studied dividing the states into two regions, four administrative division and ten agro-climatic zones. The study found that north Karnataka is under developed in general and Hyderabad-Karnataka region in particular. Moreover, most developed and most under developed regions have higher imbalances than middle order regions or developing regions. In case of literacy, infant mortality rate and dependency on agriculture also, Hyderabad-Karnataka region is in the lower status. Further, rural population, people belonging to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe have lower income than the rest. This low-income status has affected on their health and education. Totally, growth and development are not equally distributed among the regions and communities. Growth/development should be distributed properly among all. The study suggests that Central Statistical Organisation should prepare detailed guidelines for estimation of domestic product for taluk and village levels. It should also train the state-level officials in this regard. These data will be helpful for policy making at gross-root level. Through that balanced regional development can be achieved.