**Breaking News: South and West India vs. the Rest – A Stark Economic and Demographic Divide Revealed!**
In a startling new analysis, a comprehensive comparison between South and West India and the rest of the nation unveils a striking economic and demographic divide that demands immediate attention. With eight states and three union territories in the southern and western regions, they encompass a land area of 1.15 million square kilometers and a population of 456.97 million. In stark contrast, the rest of India, comprising 20 states and five union territories, spans 2.14 million square kilometers and houses a staggering population of 1.39 billion.
The economic indicators paint an equally compelling picture. The nominal GDP of South and West India stands at an impressive $2.23 trillion, surpassing the $2.04 trillion of the rest of India. This translates to a GDP per capita of $4,858, dwarfing the $1,535 found in other regions. When adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP), the gap narrows slightly, but South and West India still leads with a staggering $8.44 trillion compared to $9.21 trillion for the rest.
Infrastructure plays a crucial role in this disparity, with South and West India boasting 42,635 kilometers of national highways against the 61,347 kilometers in the rest of India. However, state highways favor the southern and western regions with 79,965 kilometers compared to 86,577 kilometers elsewhere. The region also houses the busiest airports, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and Indira Gandhi International Airport, which serve millions annually.
Demographically, Maharashtra emerges as the most populated state with 129.5 million residents, while Uttar Pradesh leads the nation with a staggering 243 million. Yet, in terms of GDP, Maharashtra stands at $520 billion, overshadowing Uttar Pradesh’s $35 billion.
As population growth surges—projected to reach 456.97 million by 2025—this analysis raises critical questions about resource allocation, infrastructure development, and economic policies. The stark contrasts between these regions are not just numbers; they signify profound implications for India’s future. Stay tuned as we continue to monitor this developing story, revealing the implications of these findings on the nation’s trajectory.