The concept of the “BIMARU” states referred to the economic backwardness of:

Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh
Bihar, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand
Bihar, Mizoram, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh
Bihar, Manipur, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand

The correct answer is: Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh.

The term “BIMARU” is an acronym for the states of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. These states are often referred to as the “Hindi heartland” and are located in the northern and central parts of India. They are among the poorest and most underdeveloped states in India, with high levels of poverty, illiteracy, and unemployment.

The term “BIMARU” was first coined in the 1980s by the economist Raj Krishna to describe the economic backwardness of these states. He argued that these states were lagging behind the rest of India due to a number of factors, including poor governance, lack of investment, and low levels of education and skills.

The concept of “BIMARU” has been criticized by some for being simplistic and for ignoring the diversity of these states. However, it remains a useful shorthand for describing the economic challenges facing these states.

The other options are incorrect because they do not include all four of the states that are typically included in the “BIMARU” group.