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)

Despite becoming 5th largest economy of the world, around 16.7% of population is multidimensionally poor (NITI Aayog). Underlying causes of multidimensional poverty: (A) Social reasons: (1) High rate of population growth - over 1.3 billion (CAGR) (2) High level of inequality - (pie chart showing 39% own 87% of wealth) (3) Gendered poverty in inter-sectionally - by 1/6th poor household in women headed. (4) Historical inequities due to caste system.

(B) Politico-Administrative reason: (1) Failure of land reforms (2) Inadequate social sector expenditure (6% India vs 20% Sweden of 4D) (3) Corruption of loopholes in programme. (C) Economic reasons: (1) High dependency on agriculture - by 57% workforce (2) Jobless growth post LPG reforms. Key measures taken by government: (1) Nutritional security through PDS based on SECC, 2011 - by PM-GKAY (2) Financial inclusion through PM-Jan Dhan Yojana (3) MGNREGA to provide employment in case of necessity