India witnessed an unprecedented number of 13.5 crore people pulled out of multidimensional poverty between 2015-16 and 2019-21, according to the National Multidimensional Poverty Index, A Progress Review 2023' by NITI Aayog.
As per the report, India has made significant progress in reducing multidimensional poverty, with a significant decline of 9.89% points in the proportion of multidimensionally poor individuals from 24.85% in 2015-16 to 14.96% in 2019-2021.
The rural areas experienced the most rapid decline, decreasing from 32.59% to 19.28%, while urban areas witnessed a reduction from 8.65% to 5.27%. Among the states, Uttar Pradesh recorded the largest decrease, with 3.43 crore people escaping multidimensional poverty.
The report provides multidimensional poverty estimates for all 36 states and union territories, as well as 707 administrative districts, highlighting the most significant reductions in poverty proportions in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Rajasthan.
The National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) evaluates collective deprivations in three equally important dimensions: health, education, and standard of living. These dimensions are reflected through a set of 12 indicators aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
These indicators encompass nutrition, child and adolescent mortality, maternal health, years of schooling, school attendance, access to cooking fuel, sanitation, drinking water, electricity, housing, possession of assets, and bank account ownership. Encouraging progress has been observed across all 12 indicators, highlighting significant improvements in these areas.
The Government's dedicated focus on improving access to sanitation, nutrition, cooking fuel, financial inclusion, drinking water, and electricity has led to significant advancements in these areas. All 12 parameters of the MPI have shown marked improvements.
The MPI value in India has nearly halved, decreasing from 0.117 to 0.066 during the period from 2015-16 to 2019-21. This indicates a substantial decline in the intensity of poverty, which dropped from 47% to 44%.
This signifies India's progress towards achieving SDG Target 1.2, which aims to reduce multidimensional poverty by at least half by 2030. Impressively, India is on track to meet this target well ahead of the stipulated timeline. This progress reflects the Government's strategic focus on fostering sustainable and equitable development while working towards eradicating poverty by 2030. It demonstrates the Government's commitment to fulfilling the SDGs and promoting a more prosperous and inclusive society.
Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet, and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making related decisions.