Abstract
The issue of regional development has been widely discussed in relation to a developed area and development at an aggregate level rather than focusing attention exclusively on the backward regions. Scholars have tried to define the term 'backward region' with reference to the typical problems encountered by such regions, their potential for development, efficacy of regional plans and factor endowments. Hence, it is necessary to look at the backward regions of India with special emphasis on Kashmir Valley which is one of the three regions of Jammu and Kashmir States. Examination of the stated problem in this investigation requires a huge data from both primary and secondary sources which is followed by a set of indicators. A number of statistical methods like standardization and construction of composite index through factor analysis were employed in the present study. This is followed by the classification of tehsils (unit of analysis or sub-district) on the basis of their development with an aim to emphasize the backward areas and the dynamics of backwardness. Most of the units (study units) were found to be in backward category either in one or the other sector of development. Hence, it is extremly important to emphasize the integrated sectoral development rather than individual sectors. Key words: Regional development, backward region, India, Kashmir Valley, Levels of development, factor analysis, sectoral development.
Highlights
The term, development or backwardness, is highly subjective
Development or backwardness may relate to any field, social, political, physical, psychological, natural, technological and moral. These two terms are commonly used with reference to availability of per capita real income, employment opportunities, infrastructure facilities, amenities and services
These two terms can be interpreted as an increase or decrease in the material well being of the population inhabiting a particular area. This material well being is reflected in the present study by either an increase or decrease in the levels of development in the major sectors of the economy as shown by the value of indicators selected
Summary
The term, development or backwardness, is highly subjective. There are numerous definitions of these two terms. Development or backwardness may relate to any field, social, political, physical, psychological, natural, technological and moral In economics, these two terms are commonly used with reference to availability of per capita real income, employment opportunities, infrastructure facilities, amenities and services. All the adverse impact discussed so far demands immediate measures to minimize regional disparities Backward regions in such cases need proper attention and assistance so that their potential is properly harnessed enabling them to attain higher levels of development. There have been continuous efforts to define the term ‘backward region’ but they are quite indistinct, and have failed to give a clear picture of what exactly constitutes a region, with reference to the typical problems faced by such regions It is quite challenging for a researcher to study backwardness of a region without a common definition. The present study is an attempt in this direction and has the following aims and objectives
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