Social Development Disparity in Uttarakhand: A Geographical Perspective

Abstract

This study has a fresh look on the social development disparity in Uttarakhand during post reform period (1991-2011). Uttarakhand recorded always higher female literacy than India during 1991-2011. It was found that Uttarakhand recorded always higher social development than India during corresponding period of time. India, Uttarakhand, and all districts of Uttarakhand recorded increase in relative social development index. Across the districts of the state, Dehradun recorded highest social development and the lowest in Uttarkashi. It was found that districts with higher social development in 1991 recorded lower change and vice-versa during 1991-2011. The convergence of social development had been recorded. Uttarkashi, Tehri Garhwal, Udham Singh Nagar, and Hardwar were lagging behind in social development. It was recommended that the policy makers and planners to give special attention for these districts to bridge the gap.