Disparity in telecommunication development across states in india

The present study covers 17 states and 1 union territory of India over the period 2000-14 to enquire into interstate disparity in tele-density and its evolution with time. The inequality trend and the nature of polarization across the states of India in terms of tele-density over the study period have been examined for the purpose. The study also delves into the possibility of sigma and absolute beta convergence of the states in terms of tele-density. The analysis is based on overall tele-density figures of the states as well as on figures segregated for the urban and rural areas of 17 states. Results show indication of decreasing trend in inequality across the states in terms of overall tele-density as well as for rural and urban tele-density. Esteban and Ray measure shows decrease in polarization when measured in terms of urban tele-density but for the overall tele-density and the rural tele-density a rise in polarization was observed during the study period. Further, study also gives a picture of sigma convergence and absolute beta convergence across states when tried on overall tele-density as well as rural and urban tele-density.