The Western Zonal Council also discussed the contribution of the Western Region in the economic development of India

The Western Zonal Council is one of the five zonal councils created by the States Re-organisation Act, 1956. It comprises the states of Goa, Gujarat and Maharashtra as well as the Union Territories of Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu.

Western Region's Contribution

It accounts for 25 percent of GDP, only the southern region accounts for about 30 percent.

In India, the north, the centre and the east together account for around 18. 5%, 13. 6% and 12. 5% of the country's GDP, highlighting regional disparities.

More than half of India’s international trade passes through it, and it is a gateway to the northern and central regions of the country.

The elements that contribute to regional disparities

History - Rich regions (Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai) were favoured by British policies.

Geographic: In some states, uneven growth results from the availability of resources, such as ports and raw materials; in other states, there is a risk of disaster and difficult terrain, such as in the Himalayan and northeastern states.

Economic: Inadequacy of basic infrastructure like transport, power, technology etc. and dominance of primary economic activities in some states.

Governance: Companies want to operate in advanced countries with good governance and stable policies.

Methods for eradicating regional inequalities

The Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) will focus on transforming 112 of the country’s poorest districts in the shortest time possible. Similar to ADP, the Aspirational Block Program (ABP).

Infrastructural development through Bharatmala, Sagarmala, PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, etc.

Through NITI Aayog, cooperative and competitive federalism is promoted.

The States get development funds through loans linked to reforms and Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment.