In India, Karnataka State stands first both in the area and production of Arecanut when compared to other states. In Karnataka among the 27 districts, Shimoga district stands first in area under areca cultivation more than 20,000 hectares in 2002. In addition to this, Shimoga district recorded the highest increase in area under Arecanut cultivation in the last decade (1990-91 to 2000-01) as compared to other districts. Karnataka is a state in the south western region of India. It was formed on 1 November 1956, with the passage of the States Reorganisation Act. Originally known as the State of Mysore, it was renamed Karnataka in 1973. The state corresponds to the Carnatic region. The capital and largest city is Bangalore (Bengaluru).

The recorded history of Karnataka goes back more than two millennia. Several great empires and dynasties have ruled over Karnataka and have contributed greatly to the history, culture and development of Karnataka. Karnataka State has been divided into four revenue divisions, 49 sub-divisions, 30 districts, 176 taluks and 747 hoblies/revenue circles and 5628 gram panchayats for administrative purposes. The state has 281 towns and 7 municipal corporations. Bangalore is the fifth largest urban agglomeration out of 23 metropolis, urban agglomerations and cities in India. It is among the fastest growing cities in the world. The book is intended to provide referral benefit to students, scholars and policy-makers.