Question 10GS1GS1
Why is inequality increasing in India despite the fall in overall poverty? (Answer in 150 words)
Main Body
Inequality presumes a key paradox with rising incomes and reduction in poverty, with India's gini coefficient and GDP per capita showing diverging trajectories.
Oktam Report: top 1%60% income, top 1%40% wealth
Why diverging:
1Risky ceiling, falling floor — Rich getting richer due to enhanced access
2Last mile deprivation due to lack of economic agency
3Health provisionally least rising out-of-pocket expenditure
4Unskilled and low-skilled workforce at bottom, readily to unemployment, currently at 8%
5Rising unemployment, currently at 8%
6Social security deficit leading to more focus on basic necessities of food, shelter, health over education
7Deficiently shaped policy paradigm — TD Targeted PDS loopholes pushed by CAG
Undoubtedly underprivileged, 'Skilled and low-skilled distribution':
PovertyGlobalization fueling tech, Development of developed
Way forward: CDSS substitution — TD Ujjwala Yojana (self-employment, kisan + entrepreneurship push via MUDRA Loans, Vulnerable sections) — Divya Kala Mela, One DISIMT One Produce, FM Krishi Sinchayee Yojana
Thus, to bridge the gap between 'SEN & Dreze' and Visit Bharat', steps for dividend capture are necessary.
178 words6 paragraphs
- Clearly explained the inequality-poverty paradox
- Cited Oxfam data
- Provided structural reasons for divergence
- Connected multiple government schemes to poverty alleviation
- Referenced academic perspectives
Topper
Zinnia Arora
AIR 62028
Subject & Paper
GS1GS1
Topic
Poverty and Developmental issues
Inequality and poverty paradox
Rising inequality despite poverty reduction
Writing Stats
178
Total words
6
Paragraphs
analytical, technical
Tone