Energy and Inclusive Growth of Karnataka: Analysis and Policy Implications

Abstract

Energy is a crucial factor in the process of development. Availability and access to energy are pre-requisites for the functioning of any system, sector and region which invariably demands for energy security. The present study has made an attempt to analyze, the energy inclusiveness in the process of growth of Karnataka. Census survey data have been used for the study and disparity techniques have been largely used for analysis. Possible pre-testing procedures have been followed to ensure the data validity. Arguments have been made only on the basis of tested results. It has been found from the study that there is significant difference between urban and rural regions in access to energy sources. There is a correlation between development and access to energy sources. It has been found from the impact analysis that regional factors and income have positive impact on use of modern clean energy sources. Therefore, there is a need of integrated energy strategy for inclusive growth of Karnataka. Otherwise, some regions, some districts, some sections of the people will be left-out in development process due to lack of access to energy.