Understanding the extent, source, and complexity of deprivations among the multidimensionally poor contributes to more informed policymaking. In this context, analyse the latest National Multidimensional Poverty Index Report by NITI Aayog

National Multidimensional Poverty Index introduced by NITI Aayog is based on the MPI published by UNDP. It includes 12 parameters in place of 10 parameters of global MPI. Indian MPI includes Maternal health and Financial inclusion in addition to health, education and living standards or income. Features of NITI Aayog report: MPI decreased to 14.96% in 2019-21 report compared to 24% in 2015-16 Improvement in access to parameters like cooking fuel, sanitation, drinking water and bank accounts

But it has also highlighted challenges with poverty in India as follows: Some state are very poor compared to other. Regional imbalance in poverty. Other has 1/3rd population that is multidimensionally poor Though gross enrollment ratio has increased, percentage like access to higher education and year of schooling are critical Nearly 3-4 population faces nutrition insecurity, due to this malnutrition and food insecurity is widespread Though there has been a significant increase in the people out of poverty, may are still vulnerable to poverty and MPI can increase substantially due to shocks like recession or pandemic

Way Forward Data collection and monitoring to better assess poverty and its extent, distribution amongst the society Data driven and participatory poverty alleviation programmes to ensure better policy outcomes Nutrition security to be provided by improving and diversifying PDS mechanism Water access and sanitation HMRU scheme like IJJM and alotnees Quality education to be provided at the cost thru public schools Upgrade health infra in rural areas MPI is a serious issue, and multidimensional poverty can be minimized only through a comprehensive approach that consists both the quality and quantity of poverty