Situated in South West India, Karnataka is one of the leading States in the country in terms of economic development. It is the eighth largest State in terms of both

• Geographical area (1.92 lakh kms)
• Population (5.27 crore - 2001 Census).

The State's GDP at constant prices (2002-03) at Rs.72,399 crore accounts for 5.5 per cent of the national GDP. The State has witnessed a healthy 6.5 per cent CARG in the GSDP for the ten year period 1994-2003, being the highest among the leading States in the country.

The State is largely service oriented and income from the sector contributes to half the State's GDP with the agricultural and the industrial sector contributing to nearly 25 per cent each. The major manufacturing oriented industries in the State include

• Sugar
• Paper
• Cement industries.

Among the service oriented sectors, Karnataka leads the Indian biotechnology industry. IT/ITeS is another thriving industry in the State, concentrated in and around Bangalore, the silicone valley of India.

The State prides having a strong infrastructure. There are 20 ports across Karnataka, the two major ones being the Mangalore port and the Karwar port. A number of national and State highways make inter-city and town communication easily accessible. Karnataka also has a strong railway and airport network. Karnataka is a preferred destination for investments. The Karnataka Udyog Mitra is a single contact point for all investors who wish to invest in the State.

The Monthly Review of the Karnataka Economy gives an updated and analytical view of the State's economy. The review encompasses detailed sectoral statistics and analysis. The sectors broadly covered in the review include

• Agriculture allied sectors
• Infrastructure
• Industry
• Labour & employment,
• Investments
• Corporate developments
• State public finance
• Banking
• Small savings
• Social sector

The Monthly Review of the Karnataka Economy is part of the State Analysis Service.