Despite economic growth, multidimensional poverty continues to persist in India. Analyse the underlying causes and discuss the measures taken by the government to address them. (Answer in 250 words)

India is said to have drastically reduced the number of people living in extreme poverty ($1.9 PPP) with poor reduction from 16.2% (2012) to 2.3% (2013), but MPPI still exists.

India's Poverty Reduction - WORLD BANK:

However, 2 people in India is believed to be multi dimensionally poor.

Underlying causes of Multi dimensional Poverty:

1. Rural-urban divide – MPLE of rural areas ₹1200, urban areas ₹7000. (HCES, 2023)

2. Gender disparity – 53% women out of labour force.

3. Asset inequality – feminization of agricultural labour, but only 1% women own land they till.

4. Education attainment lower for SC and ST population.

5. Cycle of poverty – low paying, low skill jobs given by Banerjee and Duflo, low education

6. Informal rise of precariat class – low skill, small-time, low paying jobs.

7. Low social security – insurance cover very limited for health and life – missing for middle class.

8. High OOPE for health – still private expenses.

10. Climate and Environmental poverty – lack of clean air and water.

11. Crime poverty – due to increased corporate culture of overworking

1. Food: TDS schemes, PM-KISAN Yojana, PM-AASHAETE: PM-Anna Yojana

2. Education: mid-day meal schemes, Dignified scholarships for higher education, internships on women in STEM etc.

3. Skilling: PM-KVY, Industrial training institutes etc.

4. PPP for internships and skills

5. Microfinance schemes: Eg: MUDRA Yojana for women, SHGs, PAY-NRLM

Thus, a vibrant Bharat rests on the shoulders of the youth, the women, the farmers and the upliftment of the poor.