ABSTRACT
Karnataka, one of India’s most progressive and industrially advanced states, exhibits a paradox of rapid economic growth alongside persistent regional disparities. While the southern districts, led by Bengaluru, have achieved remarkable development through industrialisation, services, and infrastructure expansion, the northern and some central districts remain relatively underdeveloped. This paper analyses the nature, causes, and policy
implications of regional disparities in Karnataka’s economic growth. Using theoretical perspectives and secondary evidence from government sources such as the Karnataka Economic Survey 2023-24, Human Development Reports, and Planning Department data, the study finds that structural, historical, and policy-induced factors continue to shape the uneven
pattern of development. The analysis highlights disparities in per capita income, industrial concentration, infrastructure, and human capital formation. The paper concludes with policy
suggestions for achieving balanced regional growth through decentralised planning, investment in social sectors, and region-specific industrial promotion.

Keywords: Karnataka, regional disparities, economic growth, inequality, development policy, balanced growth.