Chapter 8 POVERTY IN INDIA
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Project on Economics
Poverty in India refers to the significant portion of the population living in conditions characterized by lack of income, resources, and basic necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare. It's a multifaceted issue influenced by factors such as unequal distribution of wealth, inadequate access to education and healthcare, unemployment, underemployment, and social discrimination.
Despite India's economic growth in recent decades, a
substantial portion of its population still lives below the poverty line,
especially in rural areas and urban slums. Poverty alleviation efforts in India
involve various government schemes, social programs, and development initiatives
aimed at improving living standards, reducing inequality, and promoting
inclusive growth.
Continuing on, poverty in India is often categorized into
urban and rural poverty, with each presenting its own set of challenges. Rural
poverty is prevalent due to factors like low agricultural productivity, lack of
infrastructure, and limited access to markets and financial services. Urban
poverty, on the other hand, is fueled by rapid urbanization, informal
employment, and inadequate housing and sanitation facilities.
Several government initiatives have been implemented to
address poverty in India, including the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), which provides guaranteed wage employment
to rural households, and the Public Distribution System (PDS), which aims to
provide subsidized food grains to low-income families. Additionally, various
poverty alleviation programs focus on education, healthcare, skill development,
and women's empowerment to create sustainable pathways out of poverty.
Despite these efforts, challenges persist, including corruption, bureaucratic inefficiency, and inadequate targeting of beneficiaries. Moreover, external factors such as economic fluctuations and natural disasters can exacerbate poverty levels. Thus, addressing poverty in India requires a comprehensive approach that tackles structural inequalities, promotes inclusive economic growth, and ensures social protection for vulnerable populations.