Question

Describe poverty trends in India since 1973.

Answer 1

1. In 1973-74, about 321 million people (54.9% of the population) were below the poverty line.
2. The number of poor people increased to a peak of around 407 million in 2004-05 but then declined to about 270 million in 2011-12.
3. Poverty ratio decreased significantly from around 55% in 1973-74 to 22% in 2011-12.
4. Poverty incidence has consistently been higher in rural areas, where about 75% of the poor live.
5. Rural poverty ratio declined from 56.4% in 1973-74 to 25.7% in 2011-12.
6. Urban poverty ratio fell from 49% to 13.7% in the same period.
7. Inter-state disparities exist, with states like Bihar and Odisha having higher poverty ratios (over 30%), while Kerala, Punjab, and Haryana have much lower rates (below 12%).
8. Factors causing poverty include colonial legacy, low economic growth, fast population growth among the poor, illiteracy, unemployment, income inequality. and ineffective land reforms in many states.
9. Measures suggested for poverty reduction focus on agricultural development, reducing income inequality. controlling population growth, generating employment, and improving infrastructure.
10. Special focus is needed on backward regions and vulnerable groups such as homeless people, women, and children.

Thus, India has seen substantial progress in reducing poverty since 1973, but challenges remain, especially in rural areas and certain states.