New Delhi: Nearly three decades after the four states -- Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh -- were given the dubious distinction of being BIMARU (sick in Hindi), two of them claim they have managed to shed the image, at least on the economic front.

Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan governments, while stoutly defending their investment policies, say they are no more sick, although they admit that on social indicators like health infrastructure and human development, they have a long way to go.

As per 1991 census, BIMARU states contributed more than 35 per cent of India's population and about 48 per cent of the illiterate population.

According to state government figures, there are 24 lakh families in Rajasthan that live below poverty line. In Madhya Pradesh, the number of poor forms about 37 per cent of the state's population of nearly seven crore.

The Rajasthan govenment claims it attracted investment proposals worth Rs 1.55 lakh crore last year in all sectors of industries including IT and SEZ.

H S Bhabhra, the Vice-Chairman of the State Economic Policy and Reforms Council, told PTI that the financial situation of the state had improved with better tax realisation and Centrally sponsored schemes funds, leading to a surplus budget and zero revenue deficit.

Source : PTI