1.
Introduction to Poverty in India
Poverty remains one of the most critical challenges faced by India despite significant
economic growth over the past few decades. It refers to a state where individuals lack
sufficient financial resources to meet their basic needs, such as food, shelter, healthcare, and
education. India, being one of the most populous countries in the world, has struggled with
poverty since its independence. Though there has been progress in reducing poverty rates,
millions of people still live below the poverty line. Understanding the causes, effects, and
measures to alleviate poverty is essential for sustainable development.
2. Definition and measurement of poverty
Poverty in India is typically measured by the poverty line, which is the minimum level of
income deemed adequate to maintain a basic standard of living. The Indian government and
international organizations like the World Bank set these thresholds based on per capita
income and consumption. According to the Tendulkar Committee report, a person is
considered poor if they cannot afford the minimum recommended daily caloric intake along
with essential non-food expenditures. Other indices, such as the Multidimensional Poverty
Index (MPI), consider education, health, and living standards in measuring poverty.
3. Historical Background of Poverty in India
The roots of poverty in India can be traced back to the colonial period, where economic
exploitation, unequal trade policies, and destruction of indigenous industries led to
widespread deprivation. After independence in 1947, India faced the herculean task of
rebuilding its economy. Although the Green Revolution and subsequent economic reforms
improved the situation, poverty persisted due to rapid population growth, lack of
infrastructure, and insufficient access to education and healthcare.
4. Causes of Poverty in India
Several interconnected factors contribute to poverty in India:
- Unemployment: High levels of unemployment, especially among the youth, restrict income
generation.
- Population Growth: Rapid population growth puts immense pressure on limited resources.
- Low Agricultural Productivity: Agriculture, which employs a significant portion of the
population, suffers from low productivity and dependence on monsoons.
- Social Inequality: Discrimination based on caste, gender, and religion perpetuates poverty
among marginalized communities.
- Lack of Education and Skills: Poor access to quality education limits employment
opportunities.
5. Types of Poverty in India
- Absolute Poverty: This occurs when individuals cannot meet basic necessities like food,
shelter, and clothing
- Relative Poverty: It refers to inequality in income distribution where a section of the
population earns significantly less than others.
- Urban Poverty: People in cities living in slums without proper sanitation, clean water, or
stable employment.
- Rural Poverty: Predominantly in villages where people depend on subsistence farming and
face seasonal employment issues.
6. Effects of Poverty
Poverty leads to severe socio-economic consequences:
- Malnutrition: Poor people often suffer from inadequate nutrition leading to stunted growth
and poor health
- Poor Health Conditions: Limited access to healthcare increases susceptibility to diseases.
- Low Literacy Rates: Education becomes unaffordable, leading to high dropout rates.
- Child Labor: Poverty forces children to work at an early age, denying them education and a
proper childhood
- Crime and Social Unrest: Lack of resources can lead to increased crime and instability.
7. Government Initiatives to Eradicate Poverty
The Indian government has launched several poverty alleviation programs:
- Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA): Guarantees 100
days of wage employment to rural households.
- Public Distribution System (PDS): Provides subsidized food grains to the poor
- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY): Aims to provide affordable housing.
- National Rural Health Mission (NRHM): Improves healthcare facilities in rural areas
- Skill India Mission: Focuses on skill development to increase employability.
8. Role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
NGOs play a significant role in fighting poverty by:
- Providing education and healthcare in remote areas.
- Empowering women through self-help groups.
- Supporting vocational training and microfinance.
- Advocating for policy changes to support the poor.
Examples include organizations like Pratham, Akshaya Patra, and SEWA.
9. Success Stories and Progress
India has made notable progress in poverty reduction:
- According to the World Bank, extreme poverty in India has significantly declined since the
1990s.
- Economic reforms, improved agricultural productivity, and better access to education have
lifted millions out of poverty.
- States like Kerala and Himachal Pradesh have successfully reduced poverty levels through
strong social welfare programs.
However, challenges remain, especially concerning rural poverty and income inequality.
10. Conclusion and Way Forward
Poverty in India is a complex issue with deep-rooted historical, social, and economic causes.
While significant strides have been made in reducing poverty, the problem persists in many
regions. To completely eradicate poverty, a multi-pronged approach involving inclusive
economic growth, better education, improved healthcare, and social equity is essential.
Sustainable development, coupled with active participation from government, private
sectors, and civil society, can pave the way for a poverty-free India in the future.
