Indian States at a Glance 2008-09: Performance, Facts and Figures presents information on the 29 states and 6 union territories of India in a set of 22 volumes. A compilation of the latest facts and figures, ranging from the basic socio-economic and demographic indicators to development parameters, these books also provide brief profiles of the states covering their history, culture, cuisine, handicrafts, places of tourist interest as well as an account of their performance vis-à-vis other states

West Bengal is the fourth largest economy in size, but its per capita income is one of the lowest in the country, as its large population lacks sufficient income-generating opportunities. It is a state with a glorious legacy in education and industry; yet, there has been a significant decline in these areas since the 1960s. Even though, in the last two decades, there has been a surge in momentum, growth rates still lag behind the country’s growth path. The achievements of the state in land reforms and decentralization of governance through village panchayats need to be translated into improvements by human development indicators. This state, with its vast resources and intellectual capabilities, has the potential to rise back into being one of the leading states of the country.