Applied Geography for Sustainable Regional Development in Maharashtra: Potentials, Challenges and Strategic Directions

Abstract: Applied Geography refers to the practical application of geographical knowledge, concepts, techniques and spatial analysis to contemporary social, economic and environmental problems. Maharashtra exhibits considerable regional variations in physical resources, population distribution, agriculture, urbanisation, infrastructure, transportation, health services and economic development. These spatial variations create both opportunities and challenges for balanced regional development. The present study examines the role of Applied Geography in sustainable regional development in Maharashtra, with particular emphasis on regional planning, agricultural development, urbanisation, natural-resource management, disaster management, transportation, tourism and accessibility to public services. The study is primarily based on secondary data obtained from government reports, Census publications, planning documents, geographical literature and institutional sources. It highlights the potential application of Geographic Information System (GIS), Remote Sensing, GPS, spatial statistics and geospatial modelling in evidence-based regional planning. The study also identifies major challenges, including regional disparities, environmental degradation, unplanned urban growth, climate-related hazards, infrastructure gaps and unequal access to resources and services. It proposes an integrated geographical framework based on spatial planning, sustainable resource utilisation, geospatial technologies, community participation and regional coordination. The study concludes that Applied Geography can make a significant contribution to achieving balanced, inclusive and sustainable regional development in Maharashtra.