1.7      ECONOMY OF THE TOWNSHIP

1.7.1    The current economy of the Auroville township is mainly based on manufacturing units and services. Although employment in commercial and transport sectors is marginal, it is steadily growing. However, agriculture which includes allied land regeneration efforts, is an important sector of the Auroville economy.

1.7.2    Currently there are more than 100 small and medium manufacturing units operating in Auroville. The products manufactured include such modern equipment as computer software, electronic and engineering products, equipment used in alternate and appropriate technologies such as windmills, solar lanterns and heaters, and biogas systems. Cottage type industries producing a wide range of products such as garments, candle and incense products, printing, food processing, etc. also exist in Auroville. The overall turnover of all these units was about Rs. 25.50 crores in 1999- 2000.

1.7.3       The service sector includes construction and architectural services, research and training in various sectors related to efficient resource management and sustainable development, such as renewable energy and appropriate building materials.

1.7.4       People in the agriculture sector are engaged in food production, mainly fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and related research and training and activities like organic farming, soil conservation and water management.

1.7.5      Economic activities in Auroville are a mix of production, research and training encompassing both traditional and higher levels of learning in technological, social and ecological fields. The important research and training activities undertaken in Auroville are depicted in Table 6.