Book Description

The Indian growth story has been one of high Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth but primarily driven by the growth in services sector. Growth may be higher in the last two decades but inclusive growth or equitable development has been missing. Inclusive growth thus seeks to broaden the flow of benefits of globalization towards the currently excluded sections. Economic growth in Karnataka primarily driven by services (55.17%). The Contribution of the industrial sector is smaller which contributes only 16.22 percent to overall growth compared to 30.20 percent at the All-India level. Economic growth particularly pro-poor growth in terms of concentrating on agriculture and employment are important in order to reduce poverty. However, economic growth alone will not be sufficient to lift some people above poverty. Despite achieving the MDG on poverty, a large number of SC, STs will remain poor even if the growth rate is hiked. Karnataka economic growth may be improving but Karnataka is lagging behind southern states like Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Karnataka is need to operationalize a plan to accelerate growth in agriculture, employment, and social sector development and in reducing regional disparities for achieving inclusive growth during the 12th Five Year Plan period and beyond in Karnataka. The action plan should cover the priority areas like agriculture, employment and social sectors. It should have a plan for removing economic and social deprivation across all regions.