Composite Development Disparity in Western Himalayan Region

Abstract

This research has a fresh look on the composite development disparity among states/union territories of Western Himalayan Region during 2001-2011. The analysis reveals that composite development of Western Himalayan Region recorded lower than India in 2001 but experienced higher in 2011. Across states and union territories of the region, Uttarakhand recorded the highest composite development index and the lowest in Jammu & Kashmir. The disparity in composite development across the states and union territories of Western Himalayan Region increased during the first decade of 21st century. Across the districts of Western Himalayan Region, the highest developed five districts were Srinagar, Jammu, Samba from Jammu & Kashmir; and Dehradun, Nainital from Uttarakhand. Against it, the least five districts were Ramban, Kishtwar, Reasi, Shupiyan and Doda. All these districts belonged to Jammu & Kashmir. It was recommended that the Union and State Governments should give special attention keeping in view the target group and area.