Economy of Rajasthan

Economy of Rajasthan

Macro-economic trend

Rajasthan's gross state domestic product for 2004 is estimated at $33 billion in current prices.Unemployment and Poverty is widespread, state count among BIMARU states. Rajasthan is promoting Cultural & Heritage Tourism, at this time this service sector holds maximum potential for employment and revenue earning. Many of the old Palaces and Havalies have been converted into hotels. With hitting of oil in Thar desert, industrialisation of desert part will be rapid.

Agriculture

Rajasthan's economy is primarily agricultural and pastoral. Wheat and barley are cultivated in large areas, as are pulses, sugarcane, and oilseeds. Cotton and tobacco are cash crops. Rajasthan is among the largest producers of edible oils in India and the second largest producer of oilseeds. Rajasthan is also the biggest wool-producing state in India. There are mainly two crop seasons. The main source of irrigation is wells and tanks. The Indira Gandhi Canal irrigates northwestern Rajasthan.

Industries

"Textiles" - Rajasthan is the second largest producer of polyester fibre in India. Bhilwara District produces more cloth than Bhiwandi(see http://www.bhiwandicity.com) in Maharashtra.

Mining

Rajasthan is pre-eminent in quarrying and mining in India. The state is the second largest source of cement. It has rich salt deposits at Sambhar, copper mines at Khetri and zinc mines at Dariba and Zawar. This is a chart of output of major minerals of Rajasthan.

Tourism

Endowed with natural beauty and a great history, tourism is flourishing in Rajasthan. The palaces of Jaipur, lakes of Udaipur, and desert forts of Jodhpur, Bikaner & Jaisalmer are among the most preferred destination of many tourists, Indian and foreign. Tourism accounts for eight percent of the state's domestic product. Many old and neglected palaces and forts have been converted into heritage hotels. Tourism has increased employment in the hospitality sector.

Handicrafts

A spin-off of tourism has been the growth of the handicrafts industry.