Poverty & Hunger

Model Answer

Introduction

The measurement of poverty in India has been a subject of intense debate, with various estimates put forth by different organizations and committees. Though the methods and exact figures vary, there is a broad consensus that poverty levels have decreased over time.

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However, the rate of decrease and the disparity between urban and rural areas require critical examination.

According to the Tendulkar Committee (2009), the poverty ratio was estimated to be 29.8% in 2009-10, down from 37.2% in 2004-05. The Rangarajan Committee (2014) estimated a higher poverty ratio at 29.5% in 2011-12, but this also indicated a decline from previous years. Several key indicators reflect this decline in poverty:

• Income and Consumption: The per capita income and consumption levels have been rising over the years, indicating an overall reduction in poverty.
• Employment: There has been a gradual shift from agricultural to non-agricultural jobs, especially in urban areas, leading to higher incomes and reduced poverty.
• Education and Health: Increased access to education and healthcare has contributed to poverty reduction by enhancing people’s capabilities and opportunities.
• Public Distribution System (PDS): The government’s food security programs have been instrumental in reducing extreme poverty.

However, the decline in poverty has not been uniform across urban and rural areas:

• Rural Poverty: While poverty has decreased in rural areas due to factors such as agricultural growth and rural employment schemes like MGNREGA, the pace of reduction has been slow. Many rural households continue to suffer from low incomes, indebtedness, and lack of access to basic services.
• Urban Poverty: In urban areas, poverty has declined more rapidly due to industrialization and service sector growth. However, urban poverty is often underestimated as cost-of-living differences are not adequately considered in poverty estimates. Slums, inadequate housing, and lack of basic services remain significant challenges in urban areas.

Conclusion

While there is general agreement that poverty in India has reduced over time, the pace of reduction and the extent of poverty remain contentious issues. The disparity between urban and rural poverty underlines the need for region-specific strategies to address poverty. Additionally, the focus should not just be on income-based measures of poverty but also on multi-dimensional poverty, which includes access to basic services like education, health, sanitation, and housing.

Model Answer

Introduction

The United Nations Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) provides a more nuanced understanding of poverty by assessing various aspects of well-being beyond mere income levels. The MPI evaluates three key dimensions: health, education, and standard of living, using ten specific indicators. This comprehensive approach emphasizes the importance of both the incidence and intensity of poverty.

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Global Poverty Trends

The latest MPI report indicates significant progress in reducing multidimensional poverty globally. Many countries have successfully decreased both the incidence (the number of people living in poverty) and the intensity (the severity of deprivations experienced) of poverty over time. For instance, 25 countries have halved their MPI values within 15 years, demonstrating that substantial progress is achievable.

Regional Differences

The report highlights stark regional disparities in poverty levels. Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia continue to experience high rates of multidimensional poverty, necessitating targeted interventions to address the multiple deprivations faced by these populations.

Vulnerable Populations

The MPI identifies vulnerable groups, including women, children, and rural inhabitants, who often endure higher levels of multidimensional poverty. This insight is crucial for policymakers aiming to design effective poverty reduction strategies that specifically target these demographics.

Disaggregated Data

The report provides disaggregated data by gender, age, and geographical location, allowing for a detailed understanding of the specific deprivations faced by different segments of the population. This granularity enables the formulation of tailored interventions to combat poverty effectively.

Policy Implications

Insights from the MPI report can guide policymakers in identifying pressing deprivations within their countries. By focusing on the multidimensional aspects of poverty, they can develop targeted policies and interventions that address the root causes of poverty more effectively.

Conclusion

The United Nations Multidimensional Poverty Index Report underscores the necessity of moving beyond income-based measures to grasp the complex nature of poverty. By considering both the incidence and intensity of deprivations, the MPI offers a comprehensive view that can inform targeted strategies to alleviate poverty and enhance overall well-being.

Model Answer

Introduction

India continues to face significant challenges related to poverty and inequality, despite the implementation of numerous poverty alleviation programs. The effectiveness of these initiatives is often hindered by insufficient political commitment. According to World Bank data, while there has been a gradual decline in poverty rates, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these issues, highlighting the need for robust political will to drive systemic reforms aimed at poverty alleviation.

Major Poverty Alleviation Programs

Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)

Launched in 2006, MGNREGA aims to provide at least 100 days of wage employment per year to rural households. However, its implementation has faced challenges, including corruption and delays in wage payments. A report by the Accountability Initiative in 2020 noted that only 32% of payments were made on time during the fiscal year 2019-20, and the average days of employment provided per household fell short of the mandated 100 days due to inadequate budget allocations.

Public Distribution System (PDS)

The PDS provides subsidized food grains to vulnerable populations. While it has contributed to food security, inefficiencies and corruption plague the system. The Economic Survey 2015-16 reported that nearly 54% of wheat and 48% of sugar allocated to the PDS was lost due to leakages. The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) also highlighted significant diversions of PDS grains for open market sales.

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)

Launched in 2015, PMAY aims to provide affordable housing to the urban and rural poor. Despite progress, the demand for housing far exceeds supply. A CAG report indicated that only 1.2 crore houses were completed under PMAY (Rural) against a target of 2.6 crores, and as of January 2021, only about 32.6 lakh houses were completed under PMAY (Urban).

Role of Political Will

Implementation

Strong political will is essential for the effective implementation of programs like MGNREGA, ensuring timely wage payments and proper monitoring.

Resource Allocation

Political commitment is crucial for allocating adequate resources to poverty alleviation programs. For instance, in the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), political will facilitates the opening of bank accounts and promotes awareness among marginalized communities.

Monitoring and Evaluation

With political backing, programs can be effectively monitored, enabling data-driven decision-making. The National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) exemplifies this, as political will is vital for resource allocation and monitoring progress.

Tackling Corruption

Political will is necessary to combat corruption that undermines the effectiveness of poverty alleviation programs. Initiatives like Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) require political commitment to ensure accurate targeting of beneficiaries and address challenges during implementation .

Conclusion

For poverty alleviation programs in India to transition from mere showpieces to effective instruments for social progress, steadfast political commitment is essential. Only with strong political will can these initiatives achieve their intended outcomes and significantly reduce poverty.