4. Regional imbalances
Case Study 1: Regional Economic Disparities in India
Theories and Perspectives Applied to Regional Imbalances:
- Core-Periphery Model (Friedmann, 1966) – Highlights spatial inequalities in development.
- Regional Imbalances Model – Examines disparities in economic and social development.
- Growth Pole Model (Perroux, 1955) – Explains how economic development concentrates in key centers.
Models/Theories/Laws Applied:
- Spatial Interaction Model – Explains movement and interaction between regions.
- Industrial Location Models (Weber, Losch) – Analyze economic activities in developed vs. underdeveloped regions.
- Regional Development Strategies Model – Examines approaches to reducing disparities.
Recent Data:
- Economic Disparities: Western and Southern states outperform Northern and Eastern states.
- Investment Trends: Developed states attract more private investments due to better infrastructure.
- Urban Centers: Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad serve as economic hubs, while rural regions lag behind.
Spatial Variation:
- Western and Southern States: High economic influence due to industrial and financial hubs.
- Eastern and Northern States: Moderate development with lower investment rates.
Temporal Variation:
- Historical Trends: Economic liberalization benefiting coastal and urban regions since 1991 reforms.
- Future Projections: Expected rise in policy interventions to address disparities.
Source:
- Regional Economic Disparities in India
Insight:
India’s economic divide validates Core-Periphery Model, emphasizing the need for balanced regional development.
Case Study 2: Regional Disparities in North-East India
Theories and Perspectives Applied to Regional Imbalances:
- Core-Periphery Model (Friedmann, 1966) – Highlights spatial inequalities in development.
- Regional Imbalances Model – Examines disparities in economic and social development.
- Isolated State Model (Von Thünen, 1826) – Explains agricultural land use patterns in remote regions.
Models/Theories/Laws Applied:
- Growth Centre Model – Focuses on planned development through designated growth centers.
- Spatial Interaction Model – Explains movement and interaction between regions.
- Regional Development Strategies Model – Examines approaches to reducing disparities.
Recent Data:
- Economic Challenges: North-East states lag behind due to poor infrastructure and investment.
- Geographical Barriers: Difficult terrain raises administration and project costs.
- Policy Initiatives: Special economic zones and infrastructure projects aim to bridge gaps.
Spatial Variation:
- Urban Centers: Moderate economic influence due to trade and tourism.
- Rural Areas: High dependency on agriculture with limited industrialization.
Temporal Variation:
- Historical Trends: Regional disparities persisting since colonial era.
- Future Projections: Expected rise in government-led development programs.
Source:
- Disparities in Regional Development: A Case Study of North-East India
Insight:
North-East India’s economic challenges validate Regional Imbalances Model, emphasizing the need for targeted policy interventions.
