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Home/upsc: poverty & hunger/Page 2

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Mansi Gautam
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Mansi GautamLearner
Asked: July 20, 2024In:
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Examine the government’s efforts to strengthen smallholder farmers’ resilience and advance sustainable agricultural methods, and determine how they will affect the security of food supply, income, and livelihood.

upsc: poverty & hunger
  1. Dheeraj Kumar
    Dheeraj Kumar Begginer

    The government has launched various initiatives to promote sustainable agricultural practices and enhance the resilience of smallholder farmers. These efforts aim to boost food production, increase farmer incomes, and improve overall livelihood security. Here’s an evaluation of these initiatives andRead more

    The government has launched various initiatives to promote sustainable agricultural practices and enhance the resilience of smallholder farmers. These efforts aim to boost food production, increase farmer incomes, and improve overall livelihood security. Here’s an evaluation of these initiatives and their impacts:

    Key Initiatives for Sustainable Agriculture
    Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY)

    Objective: Enhance water use efficiency and improve irrigation infrastructure.
    Components: Includes schemes like Har Khet Ko Pani (irrigation for every field), and Per Drop More Crop (drip irrigation).
    Impact: Improved irrigation facilities have led to better water management, increased crop yields, and reduced dependence on monsoon rains.
    Soil Health Management (SHM)

    Objective: Promote sustainable soil management practices and improve soil health.
    Components: Soil Health Card Scheme, which provides farmers with recommendations on nutrient management, and organic farming incentives.
    Impact: Enhanced soil fertility and reduced input costs due to better nutrient management and organic practices.
    National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)

    Objective: Promote sustainable agriculture through improved practices and technologies.
    Components: Focuses on organic farming, rain-fed farming, and conservation agriculture.
    Impact: Increased adoption of sustainable practices, leading to improved soil health, water conservation, and crop productivity.
    Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)

    Objective: Provide insurance coverage to farmers against crop losses due to natural calamities.
    Components: Covers a wide range of risks including droughts, floods, and pest attacks.
    Impact: Enhanced financial security for farmers by reducing the risk associated with crop failures and encouraging investment in agricultural inputs.
    Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme

    Objective: Provide easy access to credit for farmers to meet their agricultural needs.
    Components: Low-interest loans and credit facilities for crop production and other agricultural activities.
    Impact: Improved access to finance has enabled farmers to invest in modern agricultural practices and technologies.
    Organic Farming Promotion

    Objective: Encourage organic farming practices through subsidies and support.
    Components: National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP), support for certification, and organic input subsidies.
    Impact: Increased adoption of organic farming, contributing to better environmental health and higher market prices for organic produce.
    Digital Platforms and Technology Integration

    Objective: Leverage technology to support farmers in various aspects of agriculture.
    Components: Platforms like eNAM (National Agriculture Market) for better market access, and Agri-Tech solutions for precision farming.
    Impact: Improved market access and efficient farming practices, leading to better price realization and productivity.
    Impact Assessment
    Enhancing Food Production

    Increased Yields: Improved irrigation and soil health practices have led to higher crop yields.
    Sustainable Practices: The adoption of sustainable practices has reduced soil degradation and improved long-term productivity.
    Improving Farmer Incomes

    Access to Credit and Insurance: Financial support through KCC and PMFBY has mitigated risks and enabled farmers to invest in high-yielding practices.
    Market Access: Digital platforms and better market infrastructure have improved price realization for farmers, enhancing their income.
    Livelihood Security

    Risk Mitigation: Crop insurance and improved irrigation have reduced the vulnerability of farmers to climatic and economic shocks.
    Diversification and Resilience: Support for organic farming and sustainable practices has led to diversified farming systems that are more resilient to adverse conditions.
    Challenges
    Implementation Gaps: There are often gaps in the implementation of schemes, with variations in effectiveness across regions.
    Resource Constraints: Limited financial and infrastructural resources can hinder the full-scale implementation of these initiatives.
    Awareness and Training: Farmers may need more training and support to effectively adopt new technologies and practices.
    Conclusion
    The government’s initiatives to promote sustainable agricultural practices and improve the resilience of smallholder farmers have had a positive impact on food production, income, and livelihood security. Programs like PMKSY, SHM, and PMFBY have contributed to better agricultural practices, increased productivity, and financial stability. However, addressing implementation challenges and ensuring that these initiatives reach all intended beneficiaries are crucial for maximizing their benefits. Continued efforts to improve infrastructure, training, and support systems will be key to sustaining and enhancing the impact of these initiatives.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 16, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Purpose: Introduce the concept of multidimensional poverty and its significance. Thesis Statement: State that the United Nations Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) provides a broader understanding of poverty by assessing both incidence and intensity rather than relying solely ...

upsc: poverty & hunger
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    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 specifRead more

    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.

    Body

    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.

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Manoj Singh
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Manoj SinghLearner
Asked: July 20, 2024In:
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Examine the effects of government programs aimed at fostering the growth of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and the unorganized sector on job prospects and income stability.

upsc: poverty & hunger
  1. Arjun Sharma
    Arjun Sharma Begginer

    Governments worldwide recognize the critical role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and the informal sector in economic development, job creation, and income security. Several initiatives have been implemented to promote their growth and sustainability. Here’s an analysis of these initiatives aRead more

    Governments worldwide recognize the critical role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and the informal sector in economic development, job creation, and income security. Several initiatives have been implemented to promote their growth and sustainability. Here’s an analysis of these initiatives and their impact:

    1. Financial Support and Access to Credit

    Initiatives:

    • Subsidized Loans and Grants: Governments often provide low-interest loans, grants, or subsidies to SMEs and informal sector businesses to support their operations and expansion.
    • Credit Guarantee Schemes: These schemes offer guarantees to lenders against default, making it easier for SMEs to access financing.

    Impact:

    • Positive Impact: Access to financial resources helps SMEs and informal sector businesses invest in growth, technology, and infrastructure, which can lead to job creation and improved income security.
    • Challenges: While financial support is beneficial, accessing credit can still be challenging due to stringent eligibility criteria, lack of collateral, or financial literacy issues among business owners.

    2. Simplification of Regulatory Processes

    Initiatives:

    • Streamlined Registration and Compliance: Efforts to simplify the registration process for businesses and reduce bureaucratic hurdles aim to encourage formalization and ease of doing business.
    • Single Window Clearance Systems: These systems provide a centralized platform for businesses to handle various regulatory requirements.

    Impact:

    • Positive Impact: Simplified processes reduce the administrative burden on SMEs and informal sector businesses, making it easier for them to operate and comply with regulations.
    • Challenges: The effectiveness of these initiatives can vary depending on the level of implementation and the extent to which local authorities adhere to the simplified procedures.

    3. Capacity Building and Skill Development

    Initiatives:

    • Training Programs: Governments offer training programs to enhance the skills of entrepreneurs and their employees, including management, technical skills, and financial literacy.
    • Business Development Services: Support services such as mentoring, consulting, and advisory services help SMEs improve their business operations and strategies.

    Impact:

    • Positive Impact: Skill development and capacity-building initiatives improve the efficiency and competitiveness of SMEs and informal sector businesses, contributing to better employment opportunities and income stability.
    • Challenges: Ensuring the availability and accessibility of training programs, especially in rural or underserved areas, can be challenging.

    4. Market Access and Infrastructure Development

    Initiatives:

    • Support for Export and Market Expansion: Programs to assist SMEs in accessing domestic and international markets, including trade fairs, export subsidies, and market research support.
    • Infrastructure Investment: Development of infrastructure such as industrial parks, logistics facilities, and digital connectivity to support business operations.

    Impact:

    • Positive Impact: Enhanced market access and infrastructure support can increase the reach and competitiveness of SMEs, leading to higher revenues, job creation, and improved income security.
    • Challenges: The impact of infrastructure development may be uneven, with some regions benefiting more than others.

    5. Informal Sector Integration and Support

    Initiatives:

    • Formalization Incentives: Programs that provide incentives for informal businesses to transition to the formal sector, such as tax benefits, legal protections, and access to formal credit.
    • Social Security Schemes: Initiatives to extend social security benefits, such as health insurance and retirement plans, to workers in the informal sector.

    Impact:

    • Positive Impact: Formalizing informal sector businesses and providing social security can enhance job security, worker protection, and overall economic stability.
    • Challenges: Encouraging informal businesses to formalize can be difficult due to resistance to change, perceived burdens, or lack of awareness of benefits.

    Assessment of Overall Impact

    1. Employment Opportunities:

    • Increased Jobs: SME growth and informal sector support contribute significantly to job creation, as these businesses are major employers in many economies.
    • Quality of Jobs: The quality and stability of employment can vary, with informal sector jobs often lacking benefits and job security.

    2. Income Security:

    • Enhanced Income: By supporting business growth and formalization, governments can help improve the income levels of business owners and workers.
    • Challenges: Ensuring consistent income security requires addressing broader issues such as economic stability, market fluctuations, and access to social protections.

    Conclusion

    Government initiatives to promote SMEs and the informal sector play a crucial role in economic development by creating employment opportunities and enhancing income security. While these efforts have led to significant positive outcomes, challenges remain in ensuring equitable access to support, effective implementation, and addressing the diverse needs of businesses across different sectors and regions. Continued adaptation and enhancement of these initiatives are essential for maximizing their impact.

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Manoj Singh
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Manoj SinghLearner
Asked: July 20, 2024In:
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Talk about the government’s efforts to combat child poverty and guarantee children’s holistic development, including the work being done through programs like the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan and the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS).

upsc: poverty & hunger
  1. Aditya Nair
    Aditya Nair Begginer

    The government’s efforts to tackle child poverty and ensure the holistic development of children are crucial for fostering a better future for the next generation. Initiatives such as the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan are central to these efforts. Here’Read more

    The government’s efforts to tackle child poverty and ensure the holistic development of children are crucial for fostering a better future for the next generation. Initiatives such as the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan are central to these efforts. Here’s an overview of these initiatives and their impact:

    Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)

    Objectives:

    • Holistic Development: ICDS aims to provide a comprehensive package of services to improve children’s health, nutrition, and overall development from birth to six years of age.
    • Support for Families: The program also focuses on supporting pregnant and lactating women to ensure better health and nutrition for mothers and infants.

    Key Components:

    • Supplementary Nutrition: Provision of nutritious meals and snacks to children and pregnant/lactating women to combat malnutrition and anemia.
    • Health Services: Regular health check-ups, immunization, and referral services to ensure that children receive necessary medical care and vaccinations.
    • Early Childhood Education: Pre-school education and development activities to promote cognitive and social development in young children.
    • Growth Monitoring: Regularly monitor child growth and development to identify and address any issues early on.
    • Health and Nutrition Education: Providing education to mothers and caregivers on proper nutrition, hygiene, and child care practices.

    Impact:

    • Reduction in Malnutrition: ICDS has contributed to a reduction in malnutrition rates among children, improving their overall health and growth.
    • Enhanced Cognitive Development: Early childhood education through ICDS helps in the cognitive and social development of children, preparing them for primary school.
    • Health Improvements: Access to health services and immunization through ICDS has led to improved health outcomes and reduced incidence of diseases.
    • Support for Families: The program provides critical support to families, particularly women, helping them improve their nutritional status and well-being.

    Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan

    Objectives:

    • Inclusive Education: Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan aims to provide quality education to all children from pre-primary to higher secondary levels, with a focus on equity and inclusion.
    • Holistic Development: The program emphasizes not just academic learning but also the overall development of children, including their physical, mental, and social well-being.

    Key Components:

    • Infrastructure Development: Improvement and construction of school infrastructure, including classrooms, sanitation facilities, and playgrounds.
    • Teacher Training: Training programs for teachers to enhance their skills and improve the quality of education.
    • Curriculum and Pedagogy: Development and implementation of a child-centric curriculum and innovative teaching methodologies.
    • Special Focus Groups: Targeted interventions for marginalized groups, including girls, children with disabilities, and children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
    • Community Participation: Encouraging community involvement in school management and development to ensure that local needs are addressed.

    Impact:

    • Increased Enrollment: Efforts under Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan have led to increased school enrollment and reduced dropout rates, particularly among disadvantaged groups.
    • Improved Quality of Education: Enhanced teacher training and better infrastructure have contributed to improved educational outcomes and learning experiences for students.
    • Equity and Inclusion: A special focus on marginalized groups has promoted greater equity in education, helping to bridge the gap between different socio-economic groups.
    • Holistic Development: Emphasis on overall development, including physical and mental health, supports a more rounded growth experience for children.

    Overall Assessment

    Positive Outcomes:

    • Reduction in Child Poverty: Both ICDS and Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan contribute to reducing child poverty by addressing fundamental needs such as nutrition, health, and education.
    • Holistic Growth: These initiatives support the holistic development of children, preparing them for future academic and life challenges.
    • Support for Vulnerable Groups: Targeted interventions help ensure that children from marginalized and disadvantaged backgrounds receive the support they need to thrive.

    Challenges and Areas for Improvement:

    • Implementation Issues: Effective implementation can be hampered by issues such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of trained personnel, and delays in fund disbursement.
    • Quality of Services: Ensuring consistent quality across regions and addressing disparities in service delivery can be challenging.
    • Monitoring and Evaluation: Robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms are essential to assess the effectiveness of these programs and make necessary adjustments.

    In conclusion, the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan are vital components of the government’s strategy to combat child poverty and promote holistic development. While these initiatives have made significant strides in improving child health, nutrition, and education, ongoing efforts are needed to address challenges and enhance their impact.

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Ayon Iyengar
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Ayon IyengarLearner
Asked: January 9, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define poverty and the concept of Below Poverty Line (BPL) estimation in India. Mention key committees responsible for determining poverty lines (e.g., Lakdawala, Tendulkar, Rangarajan). 2. Criticisms of BPL Estimation Regional Variations: Highlight how the BPL method doesn’t account ...

upsc: poverty & hunger
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Criticisms of Below Poverty Line (BPL) Estimations in India Regional Variations BPL estimations often fail to account for regional price differences and consumption patterns. The poverty line basket (PLB) does not reflect the variations in cost of living, nutrition, and other factors thRead more

    Model Answer

    Criticisms of Below Poverty Line (BPL) Estimations in India

    1. Regional Variations
      BPL estimations often fail to account for regional price differences and consumption patterns. The poverty line basket (PLB) does not reflect the variations in cost of living, nutrition, and other factors that differ across states and periods. This leads to an inaccurate assessment of poverty levels, as needs and prices vary significantly.
    2. Outdated and Unrealistic Poverty Lines
      The poverty lines used for BPL calculations are considered outdated and unrealistic. They fail to adjust for the changing cost of living, socio-economic conditions, and inflation, leading to an underestimation of the poverty levels.
    3. Divergence in Data
      The poverty rates derived from different methods (calorie intake vs. per capita expenditures) show significant divergences. The “direct” method, based on actual calorie intake, often conflicts with the “indirect” method, which uses consumption expenditure data and periodically updated poverty lines, leading to inconsistencies in measuring poverty.
    4. Narrow Approach
      The BPL approach largely focuses on income or expenditure as indicators of poverty. However, poverty is multi-dimensional, encompassing factors like health, education, access to clean water, and quality of work, none of which are adequately considered in the BPL estimations.
    5. Static Framework
      The BPL method does not capture improvements in public services like education, health, and food security. As a result, it does not reflect the actual well-being of households, which may benefit from government programs even if their reported consumption is low.

    Efforts for Improvement
    To overcome these shortcomings, there is a shift towards more comprehensive poverty measures like the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), which includes deprivations in areas such as health, education, and living standards

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Rohini Singh
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Rohini SinghBegginer
Asked: June 15, 2024In:
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Analyze how Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) affects the efficiency and openness of India’s social programs for the weaker segments of society.(Answer in 250 words)

upsc: poverty & hunger
  1. Puja Singh
    Puja Singh Begginer

    Answer: Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) was launched in 2013 with the aim of reforming the government delivery system by re-engineering the existing process in welfare schemes for simpler and faster flow of information/funds and to ensure accurate targeting of the beneficiaries, de- duplication and reRead more

    Answer:
    Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) was launched in 2013 with the aim of reforming the government delivery system by re-engineering the existing process in welfare schemes for simpler and faster flow of information/funds and to ensure accurate targeting of the beneficiaries, de- duplication and reduction of fraud. It transfers government benefits directly into the Citizen’s Aadhar-seeded bank accounts for targeted delivery of the benefits.
    Impact of DBT on the effectiveness and transparency of welfare schemes for the vulnerable sections in India:

    • Efficient transfer of Government benefit: By using DBT, the intended benefit is directly transferred to the accounts of the beneficiaries, cutting down the middle administrative layers that were delaying the process of transfer earlier. For example, DBT to landholding farmers under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana.
    • Wide coverage of schemes: According to the DBT Mission’s status report, DBT has expanded from a mere 24 schemes (as part of a pilot Programme) in 43 districts in 2013 to over 300 Central schemes across India by December 2022.
      • For example, the Government of India has transferred $312 billion to beneficiaries (nearly 65% of the vulnerable population) under its various social security schemes since the start of the DBT in 2013.
    • Ensure financial inclusion: DBT comes with the prerequisite of a compulsory Aadhaar linked Savings account and this brings the beneficiary into formal economy and introduces him/her to the banking system. For example, women hold 56% of over 46 crore Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) accounts.
    • Increases the transparency & accountability: The intended amount for the welfare scheme and its movement can be tracked to and forth thereby providing more accountability.
    • Reduces Corruption: DBT helps in reducing the interactions between the beneficiary and officials, thereby reducing the possibility of bribe and corruption. For example, India saved over USD 27 billion in key central government schemes through direct benefit transfer.
    • Reduces the ghost beneficiaries and reduced leakage: The Aadhaar integrated transfer mechanism with biometric authentication helps to remove the ghost beneficiaries existing in the system, as multiple or fake entries can easily be mapped. As a result of which the government has been able to target the genuine and deserving beneficiaries.
    • Real time tracking: Public Financial Management System (PFMS) provides real time utilization of funds released from the consolidated fund of India. It has been designed in a way to meet complete end to end requirements of accounting and fund management.

    Notwithstanding its success, the program still faces hurdles like:

    • Lack of infrastructure: There exists many regions in the country, which are yet to be brought under the regular banking system like bank branches and ATMs and it is difficult to process DBT for those areas.
    • Digital literacy: The digital literacy of the people in rural areas is comparatively poor and they might be even unaware of the benefits that they are eligible to receive from the government.
    • Ineffective grievance redressal: The process of grievance redressal is opaque in many schemes and the point of contact in case of discrepancy is also unclear. For example, many citizens have claimed that they were not getting the DBT for their LPG connections in spite of opting for it.

    However, the continuous refinement of DBT, coupled with efforts to bridge the digital divide, can fortify India’s social welfare system, making it more robust, efficient, and citizen-centric.

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Krishana Lal
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Krishana LalBegginer
Asked: June 14, 2024In:
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The effectiveness of policy interventions to reduce the threat of hunger and starvation is a prerequisite for the eradication of hunger. Talk about the worries sparked by the most recent news on India’s hunger crisis in this perspective.(250 words)

upsc: poverty & hunger
  1. Bharti Singh
    Bharti Singh Begginer

    Answer: India slipped to 101st rank out of 116 countries in the Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2021, from its earlier position of 94th out of 107 countries in 2020. India is trailing behind Pakistan (92), Bangladesh (76) and Nepal (76). Further, according to FAO estimates in "The State of Food Security aRead more

    Answer: India slipped to 101st rank out of 116 countries in the Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2021, from its earlier position of 94th out of 107 countries in 2020. India is trailing behind Pakistan (92), Bangladesh (76) and Nepal (76). Further, according to FAO estimates in “The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World, 2020 report, 189.2 million people are undernourished in India. Concerns raised by the recent reports on the hunger situation in India are:

    • Wasting (low weight for height) among children increased from 17.1% between 1998 and 2002 to 17.3% between 2016 and 2020.
    • Conflict, climate change, and COVID-19 (3Cs) threaten to wipe out any progress that has been made against hunger in recent years.
    • Despite showing improvement in indicators such as the under-5 mortality rate, there is still a prevalence of stunting among children and a prevalence of undernourishment owing to inadequate food intake.
    • According to a World Bank report, malnutrition in India is two to seven times higher than in other BRICS member countries.

    Some policy interventions undertaken to curb the menace of hunger and starvation include:

    • POSHAN Abhiyaan, launched in 2018, is a multi-ministerial convergence mission with the vision to ensure the attainment of a malnutrition-free India by 2022 in a phased manner through a life cycle approach by adopting a synergized and result-oriented approach.
    • Mid-day meals in primary and upper primary schools along with anganwadis have played an important role in monitoring and supplementing efforts to reduce malnutrition through free food for children (and pregnant as well as lactating women).
    • The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme, is one of the flagship programs of the government to improve the nutritional and health status of children in the age group of 0-6 years.

    Reasons for the persistence of hunger in India despite various measures are:

    • Due to policy inadequacy:
      • Weak implementation of schemes: It is a direct result of various factors such as a top-down approach, poor implementation processes, lack of effective monitoring, siloed approaches, shortage of qualified human resources, etc.
      • Social structure: Several schemes do not reach large sections of the population, especially marginalized tribes, and Dalits, who find themselves ostracized by the distribution system.
    • Other reasons:
      • Food wastage: India wastes about 7% of its total annual food production and almost 30% of its fruits and vegetables because of inadequate warehousing facilities and cold storage.
      • Low status of women: Indian women’s nutrition, feeding and caring practices for young children are inadequate. This is due to their status in society, the practice of early marriage, low weight during pregnancy, and their lower level of education.
      • Shifts in diet and lifestyle patterns: More consumption of food and drinks high in fat, sugar, and salt, as they are cheaper and more readily available.

    To eradicate hunger, the government needs to re-activate and scale up services for the early detection and treatment of child wasting, organize regular orientation programs, use information technology to improve program monitoring, design more efficient integrated schemes for food production, processing, and preservation, and bring about behavioral changes among the population.

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Garima Gupta
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Garima GuptaBegginer
Asked: July 20, 2024In:
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Examine the effects on improving livelihood and economic prospects of government programs to support the development of renewable energy sources and enhance energy access in rural and underserved areas.

upsc: poverty & hunger
  1. Nakul Dixit
    Nakul Dixit Begginer

    Government Initiatives to Promote Renewable Energy and Improve Energy Access Introduction Promoting renewable energy and improving energy access, particularly in rural and underserved areas, are vital for sustainable development, economic growth, and enhancing livelihoods. The Indian government hasRead more

    Government Initiatives to Promote Renewable Energy and Improve Energy Access

    Introduction

    Promoting renewable energy and improving energy access, particularly in rural and underserved areas, are vital for sustainable development, economic growth, and enhancing livelihoods. The Indian government has implemented several initiatives to boost renewable energy sources and expand energy access. This analysis evaluates these initiatives and assesses their impact on livelihoods and economic opportunities.

    Government Initiatives

    1. Promotion of Renewable Energy Sources
      • National Solar Mission: Launched as part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), the National Solar Mission aims to promote solar energy by setting ambitious targets for solar power capacity. The mission seeks to deploy solar technologies at a scale that can drive down costs and foster innovation.
        • Recent Example: As of 2023, India has achieved over 100 GW of installed solar capacity, surpassing the target set for 2022, demonstrating the success of the National Solar Mission in scaling up solar energy deployment.
      • Wind Energy Initiatives: The government has also supported wind energy through policies such as the Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy, which promotes the development of hybrid projects to optimize the use of land and resources.
        • Recent Example: The launch of the National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy in 2022 aims to enhance efficiency and reduce costs by integrating wind and solar power projects.
      • Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs): Under the RPO framework, states are required to purchase a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources. This policy helps drive demand for renewable energy and encourages investment in clean technologies.
        • Recent Example: In 2023, several states, including Gujarat and Karnataka, exceeded their RPO targets, reflecting a growing commitment to renewable energy.
    2. Improving Energy Access in Rural and Underserved Areas
      • Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY): This scheme focuses on providing 24×7 electricity to rural areas and improving the quality of power supply through the augmentation of infrastructure.
        • Recent Example: As of 2023, DDUGJY has facilitated the electrification of over 18,000 villages and improved power supply to numerous rural households, significantly enhancing energy access in these areas.
      • Saubhagya Scheme: The Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (Saubhagya) aims to provide electricity connections to all households in rural and urban areas, ensuring universal access to power.
        • Recent Example: The Saubhagya scheme, launched in 2017, has connected over 2.8 crore households by 2022, playing a critical role in extending electricity access to previously unconnected regions.
      • Solar Home Lighting Systems: To address energy access challenges in remote areas, the government promotes solar home lighting systems, which provide off-grid solutions for rural households.
        • Recent Example: The Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (KUSUM) scheme, launched in 2019, supports the installation of solar pumps and home lighting systems in rural areas, benefiting farmers and remote communities.
    3. Support for Energy Storage and Grid Integration
      • Energy Storage Projects: To address the intermittency of renewable energy sources, the government supports the development of energy storage technologies, such as batteries and pumped storage projects.
        • Recent Example: The Energy Storage Mission, announced in 2022, aims to promote the development and deployment of advanced energy storage solutions to enhance the stability and reliability of the power grid.
      • Green Energy Corridors: These projects focus on creating infrastructure to facilitate the integration of renewable energy into the national grid, ensuring that renewable power generated in remote areas can be transmitted to where it is needed.
        • Recent Example: The Green Energy Corridor Phase-I, completed in 2021, has improved the transmission infrastructure for renewable energy, enabling more efficient distribution of green power.

    Impact on Livelihood and Economic Opportunities

    1. Enhanced Livelihood Opportunities:
      • Job Creation: The expansion of renewable energy projects has created numerous jobs in manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and operations. This is particularly beneficial in rural areas where employment opportunities are limited.
        • Recent Example: The solar and wind sectors have collectively generated over 500,000 jobs in the past decade, with a significant portion of these jobs located in rural and semi-urban areas.
      • Increased Agricultural Productivity: Solar pumps and other renewable energy solutions for agriculture have improved irrigation and productivity, enabling farmers to cultivate more land and enhance crop yields.
        • Recent Example: The KUSUM scheme has provided solar irrigation systems to thousands of farmers, resulting in increased agricultural output and reduced dependence on diesel pumps.
    2. Economic Development:
      • Infrastructure Improvement: Electrification of rural areas has led to better infrastructure and services, including improved healthcare, education, and small-scale industries. Access to reliable power supports the establishment of local businesses and enhances quality of life.
        • Recent Example: The DDUGJY scheme’s efforts in improving power supply have led to the development of small enterprises and improved living conditions in rural areas.
      • Sustainable Development: The promotion of renewable energy supports sustainable development by reducing dependence on fossil fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and mitigating climate change impacts.
        • Recent Example: The achievement of over 100 GW of solar power capacity contributes to India’s climate goals and supports global efforts to combat climate change.

    Challenges and Areas for Improvement

    1. Infrastructure and Maintenance:
      • Grid Reliability: While progress has been made, challenges remain in ensuring grid reliability and integrating renewable energy sources effectively. Continued investment in grid infrastructure and maintenance is necessary.
    2. Affordability and Accessibility:
      • Cost Barriers: The initial cost of renewable energy systems can be a barrier for low-income households. Providing subsidies and financial support for these systems can help improve affordability.
    3. Technological and Regional Disparities:
      • Technology Adoption: There are disparities in technology adoption and infrastructure development across regions. Targeted efforts are needed to address these disparities and ensure uniform progress.

    Conclusion

    The Indian government’s initiatives to promote renewable energy sources and improve energy access in rural and underserved areas have had a significant impact on enhancing livelihoods and economic opportunities. The establishment of new medical colleges, implementation of the National Health Policy 2017, and promotion of renewable energy have led to increased job creation, improved infrastructure, and enhanced agricultural productivity. However, challenges such as grid reliability, affordability, and regional disparities remain. Addressing these challenges and continuing to invest in renewable energy and infrastructure will be crucial for achieving sustainable development and improving the quality of life across the country.

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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 21, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Context: Introduce the significance of poverty alleviation in India and the challenges faced. Thesis Statement: State that the effectiveness of these programs is often undermined by insufficient political will. 2. Overview of Major Poverty Alleviation Programs Mahatma Gandhi National ...

upsc: poverty & hunger
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    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    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 dataRead more

    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.

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Uday Bhatia
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Uday BhatiaBegginer
Asked: July 19, 2024In:
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Talk about the government’s initiatives, such as the One Nation One Ration Card program, to ensure that migrant workers have access to essential services and possibilities for employment while addressing the issues associated with movement from rural to urban areas.

upsc: poverty & hunger
  1. Akriti Pandey
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