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 India has witnessed a significant reduction in poverty, with 24.82 crore people emerging out of multidimensional poverty between 2013-14 and 2022-23, according to NITI Aayog. This progress has led to the emergence of a newly non-poor population, who, while above the poverty line, remainRead more
Model Answer
India has witnessed a significant reduction in poverty, with 24.82 crore people emerging out of multidimensional poverty between 2013-14 and 2022-23, according to NITI Aayog. This progress has led to the emergence of a newly non-poor population, who, while above the poverty line, remain vulnerable to economic shocks. To address these evolving challenges, India must reform its social protection system to cater to both chronic poverty and the vulnerabilities of the newly non-poor.
1. Shifting from Protective to Preventive Measures
India’s social protection system must move beyond protective instruments (like safety nets) to include preventive and promotional measures. These focus on enhancing the capacity of families to withstand economic shocks. By investing in human capital development—such as providing access to job opportunities and income generation—India can reduce the risk of individuals falling back into poverty. Preventive measures can cushion families against shocks before they occur, making them more resilient in the long term.
2. Expanding Insurance Coverage
Currently, only 4% of Indians benefit from government social insurance programs. Expanding insurance coverage can prevent households from relying solely on safety nets during crises, which often leads to long-term poverty and debt. Expanding contributory pension schemes, for example, can reduce the need for state welfare transfers in old age, ensuring more financial security for individuals as they grow older.
3. Engaging the Private Sector
To overcome the limitations of government resources, engaging the private sector through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) is essential. These collaborations can attract additional investments, thereby strengthening the financial resources available for social protection programs. PPPs can also help expand and improve the reach of safety nets, benefiting a wider population.
4. Portability of Benefits for Migrants
To ensure economic stability and social security for migrant populations, India should introduce portability of benefits. By allowing individuals to access their entitlements regardless of their location, such as a migrant worker in Delhi being able to access health benefits from Bihar, the country can provide greater stability and reduce disparities caused by migration.
By incorporating these reforms, India can build a social protection system that addresses both chronic poverty and the vulnerabilities of the newly non-poor, ensuring inclusive growth and social security for all.
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Relationship between poverty and environmental degradation in India:
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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