Topics
The World since 1991
Key Concepts and Issues since 1991: Globalisation
Key Concepts and Issues since 1991: Humanitarian Issues
Contemporary India: Challenges to Peace, Stability and National Integration
Contemporary India: Good Governance
India and the World
- Objectives of Indian Foreign Policy
- Principles of Indian Foreign Policy
- Concept of Non-Alignment Movement
- Factors Influencing Indian Foreign Policy
- India’s Relations with the World
- Major Powers in the World
- India as Emerging Power
- Neighbourhood of India
- Africa in the Indian World View
- Indian Ocean Region
- Overview of India and the World
- Introduction
- Cycle of Poverty
- Historical Background
- Meaning of Poverty
- Key Point Summary
Maharashtra State Board: Class 11
Introduction
Poverty is one of the biggest challenges facing India today. It means certain people do not have enough money or resources to meet their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter. This creates social exclusion, where certain groups are denied opportunities and live in poverty.
Maharashtra State Board: Class 11
Cycle of Poverty

Maharashtra State Board: Class 11
Historical Background
- British colonial policies drained India's resources, destroyed local industries, and led to frequent famines, leaving many people poor for generations.
- Since Independence, the government has made poverty elimination a top priority through planning, economic reforms, and programmes like Garibi Hatao (“Remove Poverty”).
Maharashtra State Board: Class 11
Meaning of Poverty
Poverty is when people cannot afford the basics:
- Food
- Clothing
- Shelter
Maharashtra State Board: Class 11
Key Point Summary
- Poverty means a lack of enough income for basic needs, leading to social exclusion.
- It can become a cycle that affects several generations.
- Efforts by the government and society can help break this cycle.
