Which Is Richest Village In India?

While villages are usually considered financially constrained, there are some that tend to defy the general perception

Most villages in India, while supplying vital food items, do not create a huge amount of wealth for its residents. However, there are always some exceptions. The fact is that some villages in India are extremely rich. To get an idea, let us take a look at some of the richest villages in India.

Madhapar, Gujarat - This is not only the richest village in India, but also considered the richest village in the world. As per estimates, Madhapar in Kutch district has bank deposits of more than Rs 5,000 crore. So, where is the money coming from? Well, it is largely being contributed by NRIs from US, UK, Canada and Gulf countries.

Madhapar village has a population of around 92,000 people. It has modern amenities such as schools, colleges, hospitals and well-maintained roads. The village’s infrastructure is considered to be better than many of the leading urban areas.

Hiware Bazar, Maharashtra - Villagers living in Hiware Bazar, Maharashtra are estimated to have per capita income of around Rs 30,000 per month. That's Rs 3.6 lakh annually. While this amount may seem small, it is much higher than the Rs 1.2 lakh annual average national rural income. It is interesting to note that Hiware Bazar was once a drought-prone area.

Transformation came with major efforts in rainwater harvesting and water conservation. The village has 60 millionaires and none of the households are below the poverty line. Residents generate income via agriculture and cooperative dairy initiatives.

Kokrebellur, Karnataka - The local economy is primarily powered by agriculture and eco-tourism. The latter includes cultural festivals and tourist visits to a popular bird sanctuary. The village could be generating around Rs 4 crore in annual turnover. Per capita income is estimated to be better than the state rural average of around Rs 1.5 lakh per annum. Key crops grown in Kokrebellur include rice and sugarcane.

Pothanikkad, Kerala - This village's local economy is driven primarily by black pepper cultivation and industrial mills. Annual revenue is estimated to be around Rs 5 crore, derived from agriculture exports and processing. Per capita income is higher than the state rural average of Rs 1.8 lakh per annum. The village is known for its traditional farming methods.

Dharnai, Bihar - This village is a good example of how renewable energy sources can help bring prosperity. Dharnai village is fully solar powered, which has played a beneficial role in promoting education and small business activity. It has also contributed to the economic upliftment of people living in the village. Per capita income is estimated to be more than the state's rural average of Rs 50,000 per year.

Maraog, Himachal Pradesh - This village enjoys a self-sufficient economy. Primary activity is agriculture, which includes crops like rice, barley and lentils. Per capita income of Maraog is estimated to be higher than the state's rural average of Rs 1.4 lakh per annum.