Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Contextual Background: Define poverty as a sustained deprivation of resources and capabilities, not just low income. Thesis Statement: State that liberating the poor from deprivation is crucial for sustainable poverty eradication. 2. Body Organize this section into clear thematic ...
Model Answer Introduction Poverty in India, defined by the World Bank as pronounced deprivation in well-being, remains a significant challenge despite various government programs aimed at eradication. While the incidence of poverty decreased from 55.1% in 2005-06 to 16.4% in 2019-21, the Global MultRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Poverty in India, defined by the World Bank as pronounced deprivation in well-being, remains a significant challenge despite various government programs aimed at eradication. While the incidence of poverty decreased from 55.1% in 2005-06 to 16.4% in 2019-21, the Global Multidimensional Poverty Index 2022 indicates that India still has the largest number of poor people globally, totaling 22.8 crore.
Lack of Understanding of Poverty
A fundamental reason for the persistence of poverty is the narrow understanding of what constitutes poverty. The Tendulkar Committee defined the poverty line based on minimal expenditure, suggesting that individuals earning above Rs. 500 per capita per month are not considered poor. However, this perspective fails to address the broader capabilities needed for a dignified life, as articulated by Amartya Sen (Sen, 1999).
Limited Resources
The limited financial resources of the government, when viewed against the backdrop of a growing population, exacerbate the issue. India’s population continues to rise, placing immense pressure on already constrained government resources, which cannot adequately meet the needs of all citizens (World Bank, 2020).
Lack of Political Will
Corruption and weak institutions further hinder effective poverty alleviation. Even when resources are available, they are often mismanaged due to a lack of political will to address the underlying issues of poverty (Kumar, 2021).
Growing Inequality
Significant income disparity persists in India, with a small percentage of the population holding a majority of the wealth. This growing inequality leaves many struggling to meet basic needs, as wealth accumulation is not evenly distributed (Oxfam, 2022).
Inadequate Investment in Social Sectors
Investment in essential social sectors like education and healthcare has been insufficient. Consequently, the poor remain trapped in a cycle of poverty, as their limited resources are spent only on immediate needs (Patel, 2021).
Conclusion
To combat poverty effectively, India must broaden its understanding of poverty, ensure equitable resource distribution, invest in social sectors, and eliminate corruption. A comprehensive and inclusive approach is crucial for sustainable poverty eradication.
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Model Answer Introduction Poverty is defined as a sustained deprivation of resources, capabilities, and choices essential for maintaining an adequate standard of living. It transcends mere low income, encompassing a lack of opportunities and resources. Body Despite India’s progress in reducing absolRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Poverty is defined as a sustained deprivation of resources, capabilities, and choices essential for maintaining an adequate standard of living. It transcends mere low income, encompassing a lack of opportunities and resources.
Body
Despite India’s progress in reducing absolute poverty, a significant portion of its population remains ensnared in a vicious cycle of deprivation. While providing basic necessities might offer temporary relief, it is not a sustainable solution. To effectively combat poverty, it is crucial to build capabilities that empower individuals to support themselves, thereby liberating them from the cycle of deprivation.
Example: Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)
The MGNREGA exemplifies this approach. Instead of solely providing food and basic necessities, which are limited by state resources, the government introduced this act to guarantee 100 days of wage employment per year for adult members of rural households. This initiative not only provides immediate income but also enables individuals to work productively, helping them fulfill their basic needs sustainably. Research indicates that MGNREGA has significantly improved rural livelihoods and reduced poverty levels (Source: “MGNREGA: A Success Story” by the Ministry of Rural Development).
Other Initiatives
Other initiatives further illustrate this principle:
Conclusion
With a vast population and limited resources, India can only leverage its demographic dividend by investing in capabilities that liberate the poor from deprivation. By focusing on empowerment rather than mere aid, India can make significant strides toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 1, which aims to end poverty in all forms. Such measures are essential for sustainable poverty alleviation and the overall development of the nation.
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