2nd Edition of National Multidimensional Poverty Index

In a significant achievement, India has witnessed a remarkable decline in multidimensional poverty, lifting millions of people out of deprivation. The latest report by NITI Aayog, titled ‘National Multidimensional Poverty Index: A Progress Review 2023,’ sheds light on India’s progress in reducing multidimensional poverty between 2015-16 and 2019-21.  

Key Highlights of the Report 

  • 13.5 Crore People Escaped Multidimensional Poverty: During the aforementioned period, a staggering 13.5 crore individuals in India successfully moved out of multidimensional poverty, marking a significant positive shift in the country’s socio-economic landscape. 
  • 9.89 Percentage Points Decline: India witnessed an impressive decline of 9.89 percentage points in multidimensional poverty, showcasing a substantial improvement in the well-being and living conditions of its citizens. 
  • Rural Areas Spearhead Poverty Reduction: Among different regions, rural areas emerged as the frontrunners in the battle against poverty. The report highlights a rapid decline in poverty from 32.59% to 19.28% in rural regions, showcasing the effectiveness of targeted efforts in uplifting marginalized communities. 
  • Uttar Pradesh Leads the Way: Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in India, registered the largest decline in the number of poor individuals. A remarkable 3.43 crore people in Uttar Pradesh successfully escaped multidimensional poverty, demonstrating the effectiveness of government initiatives in reaching the most vulnerable sections of society. 
  • Extensive Coverage: The report covers a comprehensive analysis of poverty across 707 administrative districts, providing valuable insights into regional disparities and progress in poverty reduction efforts. 
  • Dimensions Considered: The National Multidimensional Poverty Index takes into account three critical dimensions: health, education, and standard of living. These dimensions provide a comprehensive assessment of poverty, reflecting the holistic nature of development and well-being. 
  • SDG-Aligned Indicators: To measure multidimensional poverty, the report utilizes 12 SDG-aligned indicators. These indicators encompass crucial aspects such as nutrition, child and adolescent mortality, maternal health, years of schooling, school attendance, access to amenities like cooking fuel, sanitation, drinking water, electricity, housing, assets, and bank accounts. 
  • MPI Value: The MPI value for India between 2015-16 and 2019-21 witnessed a significant decline from 0.117 to 0.066. This reduction demonstrates the country’s substantial progress in improving living conditions and eradicating multidimensional poverty. 
  • Intensity of Poverty: During the same period, the intensity of poverty decreased from 47% to 44%, highlighting the positive impact of government policies and initiatives in reducing deprivation across multiple indicators. 
  • Flagship Programs Contributing to Poverty Reduction: Government-led flagship programs have played a pivotal role in alleviating deprivations and accelerating poverty reduction. Initiatives such as Poshan Abhiyan, Anaemia Mukt Bharat, Swachh Bharat Mission, Jal Jeevan Mission, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, Saubhagya, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, and Samagra Shiksha have significantly contributed to addressing key challenges and providing essential resources to marginalized communities. 

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