February 16, 1985 Industrial Spurt in Uttar Pradesh Myth or Reality?
T S Papola Fahimuddin THE proverbially backward and slow growing economy of Uttar Pradesh is believed to have turned the corner during the last few years and the recent official statements and documents go to suggest that it is now poised for fast growth. Two phenomena form the basis of and are referred to as evidence for this optimism. First, the agricultural economy of the eastern part of the state, characterised by low and stagnant yield levels, has experienced a jump in productivity, particularly in the production of wheat. Second, the state which has lagged behind mainly due to its industrial backwardness has experienced a fast growth in the number of large, medium and small industrial units during recent years. Overall, the state is likely to achieve the growth rate targeted in the Sixth Plan. With 1979-80 as base, the growth during the Sixth Plan is estimated to be 7.9 per cent per annum; and even if 1978-79, a very good year, is taken as the base, the average annual growth rate is likely to be about 4.4 per cent. Annual growth rate in agriculture is likely to be 3.2 per cent and in industry 7.4 per cent, with 1978-79 as base.
