INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADVANCE RESEARCH
IN MULTIDISCIPLINARY

The Marathwada region of Maharashtra, characterized by its agrarian economy and historical socio-economic challenges, faces persistent issues of poverty and inequality. Despite its rich cultural heritage and strategic agricultural potential, Marathwada continues to grapple with high poverty rates, underdeveloped infrastructure, and limited access to quality healthcare and education. Factors such as recurrent droughts, inadequate irrigation facilities, and migration patterns have exacerbated regional disparities, leading to a chronic cycle of poverty. Additionally, political neglect and a lack of sufficient investment in key sectors have hindered the region's overall development, leaving many communities trapped in poverty.

In contrast, West Maharashtra, which includes prosperous urban centres like Pune and Mumbai, showcases a stark difference in socio-economic indicators. With better infrastructure, access to industrial and service sector jobs, and greater state investment, West Maharashtra has witnessed substantial economic growth and development. The region's comparative prosperity is evident in higher per capita income, lower poverty rates, and better social indicators. The disparity between Marathwada and West Maharashtra highlights not only the regional imbalances within the state but also underscores the broader issue of inequality in the context of Maharashtra's development trajectory. This comparison serves as a critical lens for understanding the structural challenges that perpetuate poverty and inequality in Marathwada and calls for targeted policy interventions to bridge the development gap.