Economic Shifts: Southern States Thrive, West Bengal Faces Persistent Decline
A recent report by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister highlights a significant economic shift in India. Southern states—Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu—now account for 30% of India’s GDP, showcasing remarkable growth. In contrast, West Bengal has faced a steady decline, dropping from 10.5% of the national GDP in 1960-61 to 5.6% today. Maharashtra remains a top GDP contributor, though its share has decreased to 13.3%. The report emphasizes the need for further investigation into the factors behind West Bengal’s economic struggles and the contrasting success of Southern states.