Answer: Regional imbalance means unequal levels of development among different regions; in India it results from physical, historical, economic and political causes.
- Physiography and climate: fertile plains and coastal areas developed faster, while hilly, forested, desert and drought-prone areas (Himalayan states, North-East, Thar, parts of the Deccan) lagged behind.
- Uneven distribution of natural resources: regions rich in minerals, water or fertile soil attracted industries and agriculture.
- Historical factors: during British rule, development was concentrated around port cities like Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai, while the interior was neglected.
- Infrastructure: differences in transport, power, irrigation, banking and communication facilities.
- Concentration of industries and investment: private investors prefer already developed areas, which grow further.
- Green Revolution: it benefited mainly irrigated regions like Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh.
- Social factors: differences in literacy, skills, health and population growth.
- Political and administrative factors: differences in governance, political will, law and order and implementation of plans.
