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Poverty in India: Reasons, Responses, Solutions

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Note: This article is dynamic i.e., updates are automatically shown from recent current affairs at the bottom of the article.

This topic of “Poverty in India: Reasons, Responses, Solutions” is important from the perspective of the UPSC IAS Examination , which falls under General Studies Portion.

What is Poverty?

• Prior to the 1990s when India was a closed economy, the public distribution system provided necessary resources to all the citizens. However, due to the financial constraints and policy changes after the commencement of Globalisation in India, the government provided necessary resources to the target population i.e., those who deserve governmental assistance.
• This lead to the Government’s adoption of the Targeted Public Distribution System. That is, the Government provided subsidised food to those who come under Below Poverty Line.
• It is difficult to give the exact definition of poverty as it has numerous causes and characteristics. It differs from nation-nation, urban-rural, etc. in other words, the definitions of poverty are based on perspectives.
• However, the general idea is that when an individual has lesser accessibility and affordability to certain essentials like food, clothes, a place to live, healthcare, education, etc., then he is said to be living in poverty.
• The UN and the World Bank calculate poverty through Purchasing Power Parity and nominal relative basis.
• Therefore the poverty estimation differs during varying perceptions.

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How was poverty estimated in India?

Estimation of poverty in british india:.

• In India, the first-ever Poverty estimation was done by Dadabhai Naoroji in 1901 which was published in his book “Poverty and Un-British Rule in India”
• The National Planning Committee of 1936 has estimated poverty in India during the Colonial rule. It calculated poverty linking nutrition, clothing, and housing. This method was used in Independent India also. The poverty estimation by the National Planning Committee showed a grim picture of British India’s Economy

Estimation of poverty in Independent India:

• A working group was set up in 1962 to estimate the poverty line of the country.
• This estimation was based on the minimum calories required to survive and the cost estimates of the minimum calories in Rural India. According to this, the average poverty line is Rs.20 per month. Based on 1960-61 prices.
• Alagh Committee: Until 1979, poverty was calculated based on the income of the citizens. In 1979, based on the recommendation by a committee headed by Y K Alagh, poverty was estimated based on the calories consumed by the population. According to the committee, poverty estimation differs in rural and urban areas. In the rural area, if a resident consumes less than 2400 calories per day, then he/ she belongs BPL population. In an urban area, if a resident consumes less than 2100 calories per day then he/she suffers from poverty. This is an assumption that the urban population needs lesser calories as they are not involved in physical works like that of the rural population. The Alagh committee was the first in India to define the poverty line.
• Lakdawala Formula: This was proposed by Lakdawala Committee that was headed by D.T.Lakdawala. This is also based on household per capita expenditure. Lakdawala committee used the same method used by the Alagh committee. However, it included certain criteria that were missing in the latter. Health and education were considered during the estimation. This committee used CPI-IL (Consumer price index for Industrial Labourers) and CPI-AL (Consumer price index for Agricultural labourers to determine the poverty line. In this method, the average of the minimum necessary per capita household expenditure is calculated to estimate the poor. The obtained value is the base for the poverty line and anyone who lives in a household with per capita expenditure lesser than the obtained average belongs to the BPL. Through this method, it was estimated that 36% of the population were BPL in 2004-2005 and 22% of the population under BPL in 2011. Poverty in India was estimated using this method until 2011.
• Suresh Tendulkar Committee: This committee was set up by the Planning commission in 2005. The methods recommended by this committee are used in the current times. It urged the shift from a calorie-based model and inclusion of monthly expenditure on education, health, electricity, and transport. It introduced the new term “Poverty Line Basket” to determine and estimate poverty. It called for the uniformity of the poverty line basket for both urban and rural areas. If a person does not have access to any of the goods mentioned under the poverty basket then he/she is suffering from poverty. This method uses the cost of living as the basis for identifying poverty. However, the resulted estimation was very low and resulting in public outcry. This lead to the formation of the Rangarajan Committee.
• Rangarajan Committee: Formed in the year 2012, this committee was chaired by Rangarajan. This too adopted calorie-based calculation of the poverty level. This had limitations as it calculated only the absolute minimum necessities. This did not include comfortable living standards as a necessity.
• Current status of poverty line estimation: The above cases show the complexity and difficulty in the determination of the poverty line. Currently, the Indian government still hasn’t found a solid solution to estimate the poverty level of the country. The task was given a 14 member task force headed by NITI Aayog vice-chairman, Aravind Panagaria. They too have failed and have recommended setting up of a new specialised panel to debate the issue.

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What are the causes of poverty (Indian perspective)?

• Colonial exploitation: India under the colonial hegemony was forced to de-industrialize resulting in increased raw material production and a decrease in the export of value-added goods like traditional handicrafts and textiles. The natives were forced to buy British goods, thus discouraging them from manufacturing indigenously. This led to massive unemployment. The droughts, diseases, and others increased the plight of the Indians during that time.
• Increase in the population : the rapid increase in the population due to a decrease in the mortality rate and an increase in the birth rate can be an asset for the Indian economy. However, in the present scenario, this is turning out to be a liability due to massive unemployment and an increase in the dependence on those working populations. The massive population must be converted to human capital to promote the growth of the economy.
• Natural Calamities : In India, the maximum of the population who belong to BPL is from states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. The reason behind this is that these states are prone to natural disasters and also most of the population in these states are from SC/STs thus making them unrepresented. The natural calamities in these states hamper the agricultural progress and economic development of these states.
• The rise of unorganised sectors : many sectors in the Indian economy are unorganised. This brings in the problem of labour exploitation. The increase in demand for work also causes job insecurities.
• Failing Agricultural sector : the agricultural sector is one of the most vulnerable sectors of the Indian economy. Farmer suicides and protests are on the rise due to the increasing debt and decrease in production. This, in the long run, would result in them suffering from poverty. This sector employs a maximum of the Indian population but provides little profit.
• Lack of investment : The investment provides more job opportunities. For this, the Indian economy must be favourable for foreign investment. However, some parts of India remain unfavourable due to corruption , political instability, militancy etc.
• Social factors : Illiteracy, unrepresented minorities, social norms, caste systems are still prevalent in certain parts of India.
• Lack of skilled labour : the population can be an asset to the economy if it is utilized efficiently. This can be done through human capitalization. Measures to improve the literacy of the population are very slow. Some, due to the lack of sufficient skills are not accepted in the workforce. This results in unemployment and poverty.
• Corruption: Many measures have been taken by the government to eliminate poverty. However, there is still a lack of political will. The corruption by those in power also contributes to poverty.
• Inefficient use of resources : India is a country that has abundant natural resources which, if utilized efficiently, without wastage, can be turned into an asset.
• Lack of entrepreneurship : There are many activities in India that can be of asset to the economy. For example, some tribes have rich art and culture which can be utilized for the tribes’ growth and development through proper entrepreneurship. However, due to a lack of leadership and entrepreneurial skills, they go to waste. The tribes remain one of the most vulnerable sections of Indian society.
• Lack of infrastructure : Many parts of India still remain isolated despite the rapid economic growth. There are several villages in India that still don’t have access to basic commodities like electricity, thus resulting in poor standards of living. They don’t even have proper roads or railways. Their contribution to the economy goes to waste due to inaccessibility.
• Recession induced by coronavirus pandemic .

What is the current status?

• The 2019 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index published by the UN Development Program has estimated that multidimensional poverty in India has fallen by 27.5% between 2005-06 and 2015-16. Multidimensional poverty means the estimation of poor not only based on income but also several factors such as poor health, poor working conditions, etc.
• According to World Poverty Clock , close to 44 Indians are escaping from extreme poverty each minute.
• As of 2011, 21.9% of the Indian population belongs below the poverty line.
• The unemployment rate as of April 2021 is 7.1%. This is a huge problem as unemployment is the direct cause of poverty in the country. The recent years saw a rapid increase in infrastructural developments like roads and housing projects for the alleviation of the poor. This might help boost investments in the country increasing job opportunities.
• According to a World Bank working paper, extreme poverty in India dropped to 10.2%  in the  pre-Covid year of 2019  from as much as  22.5% in 2011  .

Covid induced poverty according to Pew report

• The poverty rate in India likely increases to 9.7% in 2020, up sharply from the January 2020 forecast of 4.3%.
• From 2011 to 2019, the number of poor in India was estimated to have decreased to 78 million from 340 million.
• Poor: People with incomes of USD 2 or less a day.
• Increase in India accounts for nearly 60% of the global increase in poverty.
• Record increase in  Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS)  participants as proof that the poor were struggling to find work.
• Middle Class: people with incomes of around Rs. 700-1,500 or USD 10-20 per day.
• The middle-income group is likely to have decreased from almost 10 crores to just 6.6 crores.
• The huge majority of India’s population falls into the low-income group.
• Low Income Group: people earning about Rs.150 to 700 per day.
• Rich: Includes the people who earn more than Rs.1,500 a day.
• The lockdown triggered by the pandemic resulted in shut businesses, lost jobs, and falling incomes, plunging the Indian economy into a deep recession.

What are the measures taken by the government to alleviate poverty?

• Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana :
• It was launched on April 1, 1999.
• This program merged Integrated Rural Development Program, Training of Rural Youth for Self Employment (TRYSEM), Development of Women and Children in Rural Areas (DWCRA), Million Wells Scheme (MWS), Supply of Improved Toolkits to Rural Artisans (SITRA) and Ganga Kalyan Yojana.
• Its objective is to alleviate the beneficiaries from BPL.
• It helps promote the self-employment of the rural poor.
• The fund sharing between the Centre and the State is at the ratio of 75:25.
• This scheme aims at working in clusters to provide inclusive and effective aid to the rural poor.
• The rural poor are organized into SHGs to provide training, capacity building and providing assets to generate income.
• This scheme was renamed as National Rural Livelihood Mission in 2011.
• This was finally merged to Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Antyodyaya Yojana to provide skills training for the poor. This scheme also provides subsidies and shelters for the homeless. The vendor markets are developed to promote job in the rural areas.
• Jawahar Gram Samriddhi Yojana:
• This scheme replaced the erstwhile Jawahar Rozgar Scheme.
• It was launched in April 1999 to generate employment in rural areas through infrastructure development.
• Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana:
• It has two components: Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana (Grameen) and Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana (Urban)
• It was launched in 2015.
• It unites schemes like Ujjwala yojana (provides LPG to BPL), access to toilets, water, drinking water facilities and Saubhagya Yojana (electricity).
• Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act,2005:
• Launched on February 2, 2005
• It provides 100 days of guaranteed employment to rural households.
• 1/3 rd of the jobs reserved for women.
• If the jobs are not available for the applicants, and they were without jobs within 15 days, then they will be given unemployment allowance.
• This guarantees employment opportunities to the rural population and accountability of the government.
• Under this, National Food for Work, which was launched in 2004 was subsumed in 2006.
• The National Food for Work provided additional resources and assistance that are absent under Sampoorna Grameen Rozgar Yojana. Under this program, 150 districts were identified as backward by the Planning Commission. They were the beneficiaries of this program. Food security , employment through need-based social, economic, and community assets
• Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana :
• Launched by the Ministry of Skills Development and Entrepreneurship in 2015.
• It is a scheme aimed at the enhancement of skills based on the demand of the economy.
• This scheme is implemented through Nation Skill Development Corporation (NSBC).
• Training and assessment fees are paid by the government.
• The training provided under this scheme is based on National Skill Qualification Framework and industry-level standards.
• The beneficiaries include college graduates and school/ college dropouts.
• Rythu Bandhu Scheme: This was a scheme implemented in Telangana to provide financial assistance of Rs.4000 per acre per season to all land-owning farmers.
• Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi : This scheme aims to provide financial assistance to provide working capital support to all the landholding farmers. This brings in the idea of universal basic income for the farmers in India. Read more
• Social security schemes
• Atmanirbhar bharat abhiyan
• Production linked incentive scheme
• Garib kalyan rojgar abhiyaan

Way Forward:

• The government must provide transparency and accountability to various organizations that are responsible for the implementation of the Welfare Schemes.
• Infrastructure development and skills development must be made a top priority.
• More govt expenditure in health, nutrition, and education.
• The problem of the inability to determine the poverty line must be resolved to help the target population.
• Direct income transfer to the needy is an immediate solution. Universal Basic Income should also be considered.
• Investment in Agriculture by the government is necessary to decrease rural poverty. Subsidies address only short-term issues. Also, there is a need to develop technologies, with the help of which farmers can practice all-weather agriculture.
• Employment-oriented growth:  create jobs in modern sectors and promote labour-intensive industries.
• Reduce corruption for efficient service delivery.
• Resilience for poor households to withstand major shocks: through holistic, multi-faceted intervention designed to help people lift themselves from extreme poverty by providing them with the tools, skills, and resources required to deal with the challenges that keep them trapped in a state of destitution. In addition to providing assets such as livestock, the government should also provide livelihood and financial skills training to make these assets productive; personal coaching to instill confidence and hope; basic health care for families, and more.

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Poverty and Developmental Issues

Last updated on February 25, 2024 by ClearIAS Team

Persistent and unchecked poverty and developmental issues associated with it are one of the ironies of the technologically progressing world. Why does poverty still exist? What are the types of poverty existing in the world? How is poverty estimated in India? What are the measures to tackle it? Read on to know more.

Poverty is a complex phenomenon in which an individual or group lacks the means of subsistence and other basic necessities.

The World Bank defines poverty as a severe lack of well-being that has several dimensions.

Low salaries and the inability to obtain the fundamental goods and services required for humane survival are examples of this. Low levels of health and education, poor access to sanitary facilities, insufficient physical security, lack of voice, and lack of resources are all included in the definition of poverty.

Table of Contents

Types of Poverty

Poverty can be categorised in the following ways based on social, economic, and political factors:

1. Absolute poverty

It describes a state in which a person consistently falls short of earning enough money to cover at least one or more essential expenses for a long time. It can be calculated in terms of money, calories, or nutritional attainment.

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For example, Families that are unable to feed their children and themselves, as well as homeless persons living on the streets, are examples of absolute poverty.

2. Relative poverty

It happens when people do not have the minimal level of living standards that are set by the government and are enjoyed by the majority of the population and vary from country to country. It is thought to be on the rise and may never completely disappear.

For example, A person living in a wealthy culture may have a regular income and all of the essentials of life, but because they do not have as many luxuries as other members of the community, relative poverty is defined in the UK as income that is 50% below average salaries.

3. Situational Poverty

It is a form of temporary poverty predicated by the occurrence of a negative event like an environmental catastrophe, a job loss, or a serious health issue.

People are capable of helping themselves even with modest assistance because poverty is the result of unfavourable circumstances.

Also read: Economic and Social Development – Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives, etc.

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4. Generational Poverty

It is passed down from one generation to the next to individuals and families.

This is more challenging because there is no way out because everyone is caught up in the root of the problem and lacks access to the necessary resources.

5. Rural Poverty

This happens in rural locations where there are fewer job prospects, services to access, support for people with impairments, and opportunities for a good education.

Most of the locals depend on farming and other clerical labour that is available in the area to make a living.

6. Urban Poverty

The main difficulties urban residents confront as a result of poverty include:

Having trouble accessing health care and education

Poor housing and services

Due to congestion, the environment is violent and unpleasant a weak or nonexistent social safety net.

Also read: Urban Poverty

Poverty Estimation

Pre-independence poverty estimation.

The oldest calculation of the poverty line was done by Dadabhai Naoroji in his book “Poverty and unBritish Rule in India.”

This estimate was made based on the price of subsistence or minimally adequate food.

National Planning Committee (1938)

This committee, which was established under the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru, proposed a poverty line based on a minimal quality of living, ranging from $15 to $20 per person per month.

The Bombay Plan (1944)

Supporters of the Bombay Plan1 proposed a poverty limit of $75 per person per year, which was far lower than the National Planning Committee’s estimate.

Post-Independence Poverty Estimation

Planning Commission (1962)

The Planning Commission formed the Planning Commission Expert Group in 1962, and it was this group that developed the distinct poverty lines for rural and urban areas Rs.20 and Rs.25 per capita per year respectively.

Y. K. Alagh Committee (1979)

The accurate measurement of poverty based on starvation was decided.

A committee made a suggestion based on the fact that impoverished people are those who consume less than 2,100 calories in urban regions and less than 2,400 calories in rural areas, respectively.

Lakdawala Committee (1993)

The following recommendations were made by an expert group, led by D.T. Lakdawala, which was formed to assess the technique for estimating poverty: As in the past, calorie consumption should serve as the basis for calculating consumption expenditure;

Poverty lines should be created for each state and updated using the Consumer Price Index of Agricultural Labor (CPI-AL) in rural regions and the Consumer Price Index of Industrial Workers (CPI-IW) in urban areas;

The stoppage of “scaling” poverty statistics based on National Accounts Statistics

Suresh Tendulkar Committee (2005)

The recommendations made by this committee serve as the foundation for the current poverty estimates.

This committee suggested abandoning the calorie-based approach and broadening the definition of poverty by taking into account monthly expenditures on power, transportation, health care, and education.

It advocated for nutrient intake as opposed to calorie intake. A line based on the cost of living was also drawn by the committee. In rural and urban areas, the Tendulkar panel set a baseline daily per capita spending of Rs. 27 and Rs. 33, respectively.

C. Rangarajan Committee (2012-14)

The committee increased the cost of living per day for rural and urban areas, respectively, to Rs. 32 and Rs. 47. As a result, India’s poverty rate was close to 30% and its total population was near to 40 crores.

Arvind Panagariya Task Force (2015)

A committee to identify people “Below Poverty Line (BPL)” was suggested by the task group.    The study discusses four methods for tracking the impoverished, starting with maintaining the Tendulkar poverty line.

Next, move to the Rangarajan or other higher rural and urban poverty levels.

Third, follow-up data on the bottom 30% of the population over time

Fourth, keeping track of the bottom 30%’s performance on particular metrics like housing, sanitization, electricity, dietary intake, etc.

NITI Aayog Task Force

NITI Aayog has emphasised that the poverty level will only be used to assess progress in addressing poverty rather than identifying the poor for entitlements in order to allay concerns that many poor people would be left behind if the Tendulkar Committee’s poverty line is adopted.

Multidimensional Poverty Index by Niti Ayog

A Multidimensional Poverty Index Coordination Committee (MPICC) has been established by NITI Aayog with representatives from pertinent Line Ministries and Departments.

The competition between states is intended to compel states to adopt drastic measures to reduce poverty.

The UNDP’s Multidimensional Poverty Index is also anticipated to be influenced by the findings (MPI).

Why does poverty still exist?

The heavy pressure on the population.

India has 84.63 billion people in 1991 and 102.87 billion in 2001.

The excessive subdivision and holdings fragmentation that results from rapid population increase. As a result, there is significantly less land available per person, and households lack access to enough land to meet their needs for productivity and revenue.

Since 1951, India’s population has been expanding quickly, which has resulted in a slower increase in per capita income and decreased living standards for the populace.

Unemployment and underemployment

In India, there is persistent unemployment and underemployment as a result of the country’s ongoing population growth.

Poverty is merely a reflection of this element, and there is educated unemployment as well as concealed unemployment.

Lack of Inclusive Economic Growth

The lack of adequate economic growth in India is the primary factor contributing to the country’s widespread poverty.

Since India gained independence, the national income and savings rate has increased, but poverty has not decreased as much as it could have because industrial expansion has not produced enough job possibilities.

Growth strategies benefited the wealthy more than they did the poor.

Failure to enact land reforms

Fair access to land is a crucial component of the fight against poverty.

The majority of rural poor people work as agricultural labourers (who typically lack land) and are independent small farmers with less than 2 acres of land.

Additionally, they are unable to find work all year long. As a result, they work too little and are unemployed for a lot of days each year.

Inflation and Food Prices

The cost of the minimal consumer expenditure necessary to meet basic necessities increases due to inflation , notably given the increase in food costs. As a result, many households are forced below the poverty line by inflation.

Shortage of Capital and Able Entrepreneurship

The ability to start your own business and have money both play a big part in driving growth. However, compared to other developing countries, these are scarce, making a large rise in output difficult.

Social Factors

The social structure is still outdated and does not encourage rapid development.

Inheritance laws, the caste system, traditions, and conventions are impeding rapid progress and making the poverty issue worse.

Climatic variables

India’s hot climate makes it harder for individuals, particularly rural residents, to work, which has a negative impact on productivity.

Frequent floods, famines, earthquakes, and cyclone harm agriculture severely; as a result, food prices rise and access becomes increasingly difficult, increasing the risk of poverty for many.

Moreover, the agricultural production of the nation is adversely impacted by the lack of timely rain, heavy rain, or insufficient rain.

Political elements

The process of granting concessions and eradicating poverty is disrupted by ethnic issues and conflict between two regional parties. The main reason for concern about India’s poverty is that various development programmes are being driven by political interests. As a result, efforts to address the issues of unemployment and poverty have been ineffective.

Actions to address issues of Poverty and developmental issues

More citizen participation.

Any programme cannot be implemented successfully without the poor’s engaged participation.

Only until the impoverished begin actively participating in the growth process and contributing to growth can poverty be truly erased.

This is made feasible by a social mobilisation approach that empowers the underprivileged by promoting their participation.

Accelerating Economic Growth

While attempts should be made to hasten economic growth, it is best to avoid importing capital-intensive technologies from Western nations.

Instead, we should pursue a path of economic growth that requires lots of labour.

Adopting monetary and fiscal measures that encourage the use of labour-intensive methods is necessary.

Growth of Non-Farm Employment

The growth of non-farm employment in rural areas is particularly important for reducing poverty.

It is possible to generate non-farm jobs in marketing, transportation, handicrafts, dairying, forestry, food processing, other agricultural product processing, repair businesses, etc.

Providing access to more assets to vulnerable sections

Reduce rural poverty through redistributing land through practical means, such as the implementation of tenancy reforms to provide security of tenure and the determination of reasonable rent.

Institutional Credit Access

The conditions enabling small farmers to acquire access to productive resources, such as HYV seeds fertilisers, and installation of minor irrigation, such as wells and tube wells, can be created through the availability of loans to the poor on easy terms.

Small farmers will be able to employ high-yielding technologies as a result, increasing their productivity.

Poverty Alleviation Schemes

National urban livelihoods mission: deen dayal antyodaya yojana (day-nulm).

• Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry
• Provide skill development and loans for self-employment to urban disadvantaged people Government interest subsidies are made through the PAISA Portal.
• Create markets for vendors in cities.
• shelters for the homeless

National Rural Livelihoods Mission: Deen Dayal Antidaya Yojana (DAY-NRLM)

• Rural Development Ministry
• Bring at least one woman from each low-income household, and provide them with training and funding for businesses making candles, soap, crafts, etc.
• They’ll work for themselves or for a skilled wage, which will bring in more money than working as farm labourers.

Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDUGKY-2014)

• Provides rural youth aged 15 to 35 with FREE skill training.
• At least 75% of trained candidates will be guaranteed a job.
• Cover Left-Wing Extremist (LWE) districts and youth in North Eastern States.

Aajeevika Grameen Express Yojana (AGEY-2017)

Interest-free loans are provided to SHGs and Community Based Organizations (CBOs) to purchase public transportation vehicles so they can make money transporting passengers.

Disha Committee (2016)

• For effective and timely development, the Ministry of Rural Development has established the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA), which is made up of elected representatives from the local governments (PRI, ULB, State Assembly, and Parliament).
• They will check on the progress of the plans at a quarterly meeting.
• The senior-most Lok Sabha member from the designated district will serve as head of the DISHA Committee. To carry out the Committee’s instructions, DM/Collector(IAS) will serve as the member secretary.

Mission Antyodaya (2017)

• Ministry of Rural Development
• Here, the government will use the assistance of the Gram Panchayat, NGOs, SHGs, ASHA workers, etc. to more vigilantly and accountable implement the other ongoing programmes.
• By 2020, at least 50,000 Gram Panchayats will be free of poverty.

The major goal of all of our development programmes had been to encourage quick, balanced economic growth that was both equitable and socially just. However, not all groups of individuals have benefited from our policies and actions. The constitution’s promise and our ancestors’ hopes for an equitable society have not been realised. It’s time to consider unconventional approaches to ending poverty because while some regions and certain economic sectors have reached a level of social and economic growth that allows them to compete with industrialised nations, many others have been unable to escape the cycle of poverty.

Article Written By: Aryadevi

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Poverty Anywhere is a Threat to Prosperity Everywhere

January 12, 2020 by Sandeep

Essay on Poverty Anywhere is a Threat to Prosperity Everywhere

This creative statement serves to be one of the key principles of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Declaration of Philadelphia. It was declared (on 10th May 1994) to renew the traditional objectives of ILO. It further proposed two new agendas.

This included the need for international economic planning and the centrality of human rights to social policy. The statement aims to imply that the effects of poverty can hardly be contained. They spread far and wide and have a tremendous impact on prosperity too. There are multiple instances to prove this fact.

What is Poverty?

Poverty can have multiple definitions. It could be a lack of material possessions or a deficiency of income. It could also refer to a scarcity of the basic necessary things required for a person to live. It is, in the easiest terms, a state of being extremely poor.

The main goal of the World Bank Organization is to eradicate poverty. It interestingly describes poverty as:

“Poverty is hunger. Poverty is a lack of shelter. Poverty is being sick and not being able to see a doctor. Poverty is not having access to school and not knowing how to read. Poverty is not having a job; it is fear for the future, living one day at a time.”

If you try to understand the depth of these words, you will be able to comprehend what poverty exactly means. The minimum income level (also known as the international poverty line) is set at $1.90 a day. If a person’s income falls beneath this line, he/she is considered poor.

However, as stated by the World Bank Organization, poverty is not solely defined by the income level. It depends on multiple factors like unemployment, overpopulation, poor utilization of resources, education, etc. It is a slow poison that eats away the foundation of our society.

How does poverty threaten prosperity?

“Extreme poverty anywhere is a threat to human security everywhere.” This statement was quoted by Kofi Annan, who was the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations. It means the same as our above mentioned phrase.

Prosperity means having a comfortable and peaceful life. And poverty has always been a barrier to achieving this. Poverty is capable of driving people towards insanity. It tortures them with hunger and humiliation. It creates imbalance and keeps the social disorder alive. People stricken with poverty are forced to adopt unfair means for their survival. They steal resources from the wealthy and prosperous people. This endangers our entire society.

Some instances of poverty threatening prosperity

An excellent example of how poverty anywhere threatens prosperity everywhere is North Korea. As an aftermath of the Second World War, Korea was divided into two parts: North and South Korea. South Korea adopted a system of democracy as the government. In due course of time, it became one of the most developed nations in Asia.

On the other hand, North Korea adopted a dictatorial regime (which it still follows). People of North Korea are subjected to barbaric conditions (way different than people living in South Korea). They lack basic human rights, deal with socio-economic issues, and live under extreme conditions of poverty.

The world we live in is like a globalised village, where all of us are part of a big community. The actions of one country will most definitely affect other countries. Hence, the eradication of poverty is a necessity in our current conditions. It is, in fact, one of the goals of Sustainable Development.

How can we solve this problem?

To quote Nelson Mandela, “Poverty is not an accident. Like slavery and apartheid, it is man-made and can be removed by the actions of human beings.” He had also once said, “Overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a decent life.”

Several steps can be taken to reduce the levels of poverty in the world. Most of these must be initiated by the government. Let us go through some of them.

Creation of jobs: The best way out of poverty is a well-paying job. The unemployed and jobless people cannot possibly earn money to support either themselves or their families. This problem can only be solved by creating more employment opportunities.

Other Incentives: Corporations and all businesses, in general, should provide paid sick leaves to their employees. Nearly 4 in every 10 private-sector workers and 7 in every 10 low wage workers do not have a single paid sick day. Without these incentives, most individuals cannot manage to balance their work and home affairs (without sacrificing their income). Paid leave is one of the most beneficial anti-poverty policies adopted by multiple countries.

Free Healthcare: The price of a single vial of insulin currently in the United States of America is almost $275. Medicines cover huge expenses, especially when you are fighting a disease. Not being able to cope with this makes us vulnerable. The most important step to control poverty includes the provision of free healthcare.

The government is largely responsible for preventing this outbreak. However, it won’t work without our contribution. There are multiple charitable organizations for us to join. There are websites and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that accept donations. They carefully spend the donated amount for helping people who fall under the poverty line. We need to do our part.

There is a very beautiful saying that goes like this: “In the well-being of each lies the well-being of the whole.” Of course, this ancient proverb cannot be argued within any form or way. This is because of a very simple reason.

We can compare this to our bodies. Our body is made up of several organs that work together to form multiple systems. Each system corresponds with the others to ensure the proper functioning of the whole body. So if any of these systems is not fine, as a result, our body would not be fine. But there is a silver lining in this too. If the nervous system were to recognize the poor condition of the other systems and make amends to help it, the whole body would survive.

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Essay on ‘Poverty’ for UPSC: Improve UPSC Essay Topics Writing Skill with Ease

To those that are looking to improve their UPSC essay topics writing skills for the IAS exam can go through this article.

This article provides a sample essay on poverty for UPSC and candidates can learn how to write the best essay for UPSC.

The article will first introduce the topic, then talk about the issue of poverty in India and then conclude by talking about changes that can help create a change.

Essay on ‘Poverty’ for UPSC – First Para

Poverty is said to be a state where a person cannot even get the most basic needs of human life. They cannot get these basic needs due to lack of financial resources in their life. Poverty is a very major issue in the country. The poverty level in India is very high and is hindering the development goals of the country. The reasons for poverty are many but in short, population explosion, lower agricultural productivity, price rise, insufficient resources, debt trap and no proper government program development.

These causes have increased the poverty level and have increased the gap between the rich and poor. The poor keep getting poor whereas the rich keep getting richer. This has further caused problems in the economy. Poverty not only affects a single family or person, but also the economy of the country. The overall economy of the country depends on the output produced and poverty decreases the efficiency.

Problems with Poverty

Poverty also leads to problems like illiteracy, bad health and these lead to a downfall in human capital. Due to high poverty, India has a huge labour force that works for underpaid amounts and they hardly manage to meet the daily needs of their family.

Malnutrition and unhygienic living conditions is very common among the poor sections of society. Poverty also leads to discrimination in society. The poor are looked down upon and people believe they are not the same as the rich and noble. They do not get the chance to overcome this poverty due to discrimination. The poor section of people due to illiteracy do not get high paid jobs, and the poverty continues.

Second Para

Poverty has been in society for a long time and to create change it is very important to have support from the private sector too. The government has set up a lot of programmes in order for poverty alleviation. The NREGA 2005 is one of the most famous programmes released by the government. The program gives wages to laborers for work provided. Even if the government cannot give them work, they yet will be given the amount promised by the government. This programme is one of the most profound and important programmes for poverty alleviation in India.

Present State

The government is doing the best it can but the people need to create a change in mindsets. The need for having no discrimination is very important. With a change in mindset will come the ability for creating a real change in the society. These changes will also help in eliminating poverty.

The coronavirus is a deadly disease that has been affecting the lives of every person, but the most affected are again the poor section of society. Government programs alone will not be enough to create a permanent change, NGOs are going out of their way to create a change and it is very positive to see the rich trying to create a change by donating or helping by providing even the basic services.

Conclusion Para

Poverty is an issue that will not disappear in a day or two but even the most basic efforts have not been helping to eradicate poverty. India has had a large section of poor people from the time of British rule itself. India has overcome many stages but is yet to cut down the poverty levels by a big majority in recent times. Poverty is not just subjected to not having enough money but also not having the ability to get basic life requirements like food, sanitation, clean drinking water or even shelter. Rapid economic growth through a boost in technology has surely helped India to halve the rate of poverty from 55% to 27%. This positive growth in poverty alleviation is very essential for the basic development of India.

Also Read: Best Essay Books for UPSC: Perfect the Art of IAS Essay Writing

This article is a sample essay for UPSC essay topics. This will help students to understand how to write essays for the IAS exam and how to write to score higher in exams.

The essay is divided into parts so that it is easier to cover every aspect of the topic. This will allow you to show the knowledge you have on the topic and also try your best to link the topic to a current affair.

Also Read: Essay on ‘Climate Change’ for UPSC: Learn How to Write Best Essay for UPSC

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Poverty and Hunger Issues | Oxfam's Report on Hunger 2021

The cause of hunger is poverty. It is a global social issue. It is a topic covered in UPSC Syllabus. ‘Issues relating to Poverty & Hunger’ is a title under the  IAS Exam GS-II syllabus. As an aspirant to India’s coveted exam of UPSC, you should know that India’s poverty and hunger issues have always been debated.

Latest Context:

On 9th July 2021, Oxfam has released a report, titled, “The Hunger Virus Multiplies,” that talks about deaths from hunger in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Aspirants can get the key findings of this report in the article below.

Interested candidates can also read about:

Introduction to Poverty & Hunger

As per the  Asian Development Bank ‘s figures:

• In India, 21.9% of the population lives below the national poverty line in 2011
• In India, the proportion of the employed population below $1.90 purchasing power parity a day in 2011 is 21.2%
• For every 1,000 babies born in India in 2017, 39 die before their 5th birthday

Who are the poor?

The characteristics of the poverty-ridden people are:

• The major percentage of poor people reside in rural areas of India
• The family size is comparatively larger
• The main occupation is agriculture
• They lack resources to grow
• Low-Income group

To read more on ‘ Who are the poor? ‘, refer to the linked article.

How are the poor people identified?

In India, Niti Ayog carries poverty estimation.  It estimates the levels of poverty in the country on the basis of consumer expenditure surveys conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

Read more on How Are Poor People Identified?  in the linked article.

What causes poverty?

The following can be some reasons causing poverty in India

• Population Rise
• Low Productivity in Agriculture
• Under-Utilized Resources
• Low Rate of Economic Development
• Unemployment
• Shortage of Capital and Able Entrepreneurship
• Social Factors

Read more on  What Causes Poverty?  in the referred link.

2021 Oxfam Report on Hunger

Title of the Report – The Hunger Virus Multiplies: (Deadly Recipe Of Conflict, Covid-19 And Climate Accelerate World Hunger)

Summary of the Report – Deaths from hunger are outpacing the virus. Ongoing conflict, combined with the economic disruptions of the pandemic and an escalating climate crisis, has deepened poverty and catastrophic food insecurity in the world’s hunger hotspots and established strongholds in new epicentres of hunger.

Highlights of the Report

• This year, 20 million more people have been pushed to extreme levels of food insecurity, reaching a total of 155 million people in 55 countries
•  Since the pandemic began, the number of people living in famine-like conditions has increased sixfold to more than 520,000.
• Today, 11 people are likely dying every minute from acute hunger linked to three lethal Cs: conflict, COVID-19, and the climate crisis
• Conflict was the single largest driver of hunger since the pandemic began, the primary factor pushing nearly 100 million people in 23 conflict-torn countries to crisis or worse levels of food insecurity
• The most severe level of hunger has spiraled since the pandemic. The number of people facing famine-like conditions has drastically increased, reaching 521,814 people across Ethiopia, Madagascar, South Sudan, and Yemen. Most of the countries experiencing such catastrophic levels of hunger have witnessed prolonged periods of conflict, violence, and insecurity. 
• The estimated number of people living in extreme poverty is projected to reach 745 million by the end of 2021, an increase of 100 million since the pandemic started. Marginalised groups, especially women, displaced people, and informal workers, have been hit hardest.
• The rich continued to get richer during the pandemic. The wealth of the 10 richest people (nine of whom are men) increased by $413 billion last year
• The climate crisis was the third significant driver of global hunger this year. Nearly 400 weather-related disasters, including record-breaking storms and flooding, continued to intensify for millions across Central America, Southeast Asia, and the Horn of Africa, where communities were already battered by the effects of conflict and COVID-19-related poverty. 

Extreme Hunger Hotspots

As per the latest Oxfam’s report on hunger, the following are the extreme hunger hotspots:

The Three Lethal Cs

The report reflects on the three lethal Cs:

• The conflict has gone largely unabated and is the primary driver of hunger for almost 100 million people across 23 countries – including 22 million more people added just last year.
• Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Syria, and Yemen – some of the world’s worst hunger hotspots – are all torn by conflict.
• The economic decline caused by lockdowns and closures of borders, businesses, and markets has worsened the situation for the most disadvantaged people and led to a spike in hunger. Global economic activity has declined by 3.5% and poverty increased by 16%.
• Around the world, 33 million workers lost their jobs in 2020. The pandemic led to mass unemployment causing $3.7 trillion in lost labour income – the equivalent to 4.4% of 2019 global GDP.
• Globally, food prices have increased by almost 40 percent since last year, the highest rise in over a decade. This has been driven by increased demand for biofuels, lockdowns and border closures that continue to disrupt food flows.
• Last year, the world saw a record $50 billion worth of damages from extreme weather disasters exacerbated by climate change (including $6 billion in Honduras alone), which were the primary driver responsible for pushing nearly 16 million people in 15 countries to crisis levels of hunger
• Agriculture and food production bore 63% of the impact of these climate crisis shocks, and it is vulnerable countries and poor communities, who least contributed to climate change, that are most affected.

Initiatives by  Government to Curb Poverty in India

Ending poverty in all its forms is the first of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Read more on Sustainable Development Goals on the given link.

The government of India took several initiatives to eradicate poverty from the country. A few of them are discussed below-

• Saansad Aadarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY) – Ministry of Rural development initiated the scheme in 2014. The scheme aims to develop five ‘Adarsh Villages’ or ‘Model Villages’ by 2024. Further details on the Saansad Aadarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY) scheme are available on the given link.
• National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) – Ministry of Rural Development started NRLM 2011 to evolve out the need to diversify the needs of the rural poor and provide them jobs with regular income on a monthly basis. Go through the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM)  in detail here.
• Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) – In 2005 Ministry of Rural Development initiated MGNEREGA to provide 100 days of assured employment every year to every rural household. One-third of the proposed jobs would be reserved for women. Read in detail about  Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, (MGNREGA)  over here.
• National Urban Livelihood Mission (NULM) – In 2013, NULM was commenced by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs focusing on organizing urban poor in Self Help Groups, creating opportunities for skill development leading to market-based employment, and helping them to set up self-employment ventures by ensuring easy access to credit. You can go through the  DAY-NULM| National Urban Livelihood Mission  on the given link.
• Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) – the Ministry of Finance in 2014 initiated PMJDY that aimed at direct benefit transfer of subsidy, pension, insurance, etc., and attained the target of opening 1.5 crore bank accounts. The scheme particularly targets the unbanked poor. Further details on  Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)  is available here.

Initiatives by Government to fight against Hunger in India

As per the Global Hunger Index 2020, India is in 94th position out of 107 countries i.e. Hunger and malnutrition is a serious problem in India. A detailed report on Global Hunger Index on the linked page. The Government of India took several initiatives to fight against hunger across the nation which is discussed below-

• National Nutrition Mission (NNM), Poshan Abhiyan – NNM was started in 2018 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development to reduce the level of under-nutrition and also enhance the nutritional status of children in the country. Know in detail about the  National Nutrition Mission – Poshan Abhiyan  on the linked page.
• National Food Security Mission – Ministry of Agriculture initiated NFSM in 2007  to increase the production of rice, wheat, pulses, and coarse cereals through area expansion and productivity enhancement in a sustainable manner.
• Zero Hunger Programme – launched on October 16, 2017 with the aim to make farm inventions, Organising the farming system for nutrition, Setting up genetic gardens for biofortified plants and initiating Zero hunger training. You can know in detail about the Zero Hunger Programme in the given link.

Candidates can go through various other Poverty Alleviation Programmes initiated by the Government of India to fight against hunger and poverty across the country.

Global Initiative Against Poverty and Hunger

Food is at the core of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Goal 2 of SDG deals with Zero Hunger. Given below are some global level initiatives to fight poverty and hunger-

• The End to Poverty Initiative – This Centenary Initiative is designed specifically as the vehicle to take forward the ILO’s work in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development to alleviate poverty. Read more on International Labour Organization- ILO on the given link.
• Zero Hunger By World Food Programme – with humanitarian food assistance, provide nutritious food to those in urgent need. Meanwhile, the complementary programs address the root causes of hunger and build the resilience of communities. Aspirants can know in detail about the World Food Programme – WFP in the given link.
• Fight Hunger First – With a vision to have a world without hunger and poverty, Welthungerhilfe- WHH has been implementing several initiatives in rural areas of India and Bangladesh. It was set up by a UN agency FAO. You can know in detail about Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO) on the linked page.
• Zero Hunger Challenge (Save Food) by FAO – The 2012 United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, also known as Rio+20, launched the Zero Hunger Challenge which includes addressing the sustainability of all food systems and the vision of zero food loss and waste (FLW).
• Feed the future – is the US government’s Global Hunger and Food Security Initiative. It invests in countries that are committed to improving their own food security and nutrition by developing the agriculture sector and addressing the root cause of poverty, hunger, and malnutrition. Candidates can know more about the United Nations on the linked page.

Poverty and Hunger Issues:- Download PDF Here

Aspirants preparing for UPSC 2023  should also go through the below-mentioned links:

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Essay on Poverty | UPSC in 1000+ Words

This essay provides an in-depth analysis of the issue of poverty in India. The essay is divided into several sections, each focusing on different aspects of poverty in India.

The first section examines the causes of poverty in India, including lack of access to education, healthcare, and job opportunities. The second section discusses the impact of poverty on various aspects of society, such as health, education, and gender inequality. The third section of the essay focuses on government initiatives aimed at addressing poverty in India. It highlights various poverty alleviation programs and schemes such as MGNREGA, PMAY, and NFSA.

The fourth section examines the impact of these initiatives on poverty reduction in India, highlighting the success stories and challenges faced. The final section discusses the challenges that persist in addressing poverty in India, such as corruption, limited resources, inadequate implementation, and lack of political will.

Overall, the essay provides a comprehensive understanding of poverty in India, the government’s efforts to alleviate it, and the challenges that remain in the fight against poverty.

Poverty is one of the most pressing and pervasive issues facing the world today. It is a multifaceted and complex problem that affects millions of people worldwide, including India. Poverty is defined as a lack of access to basic human needs, such as food, shelter, clothing, and healthcare. It is often accompanied by social exclusion, low educational attainment, and limited job opportunities.

The Extent of Poverty in India

India is a developing country with a population of over 1.3 billion people, and poverty is a significant challenge facing the nation. According to the World Bank, around 60% of India’s population lives on less than $3.20 a day, making it one of the world’s poorest countries. Poverty is particularly acute in rural areas, where almost 80% of the country’s poor live.

Causes of Poverty

Poverty in India is caused by a combination of factors, including:

Lack of access to education: A lack of education is a significant contributor to poverty in India. Without education, individuals lack the necessary skills and knowledge to obtain well-paying jobs or start businesses.

Limited job opportunities: Job opportunities in India are limited, particularly in rural areas. This limits individuals’ ability to earn a decent income and leads to high levels of unemployment.

Income inequality: Income inequality is a significant contributor to poverty in India. Wealth is concentrated in the hands of a small number of individuals, while the majority of the population struggles to make ends meet.

Gender inequality: Gender inequality is a significant contributor to poverty in India. Women face discrimination in many areas of life, including education, employment, and healthcare, which limits their ability to earn a decent income and improve their living standards.

Poor healthcare: Poor healthcare is a significant contributor to poverty in India. Without access to quality healthcare, individuals are more likely to fall ill and suffer from chronic diseases, which can limit their ability to work and earn a decent income.

Lack of access to basic infrastructure: A lack of access to basic infrastructure, such as electricity, water, and sanitation, is a significant contributor to poverty in India. Without these essential services, individuals are less productive, and their quality of life is reduced.

Government Initiatives to Address Poverty

The Indian government has implemented several initiatives to address poverty, including:

• National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA): The National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) guarantees 100 days of wage employment per year to every rural household in India. This initiative has helped to provide job opportunities to millions of individuals in rural areas and has reduced poverty.
• Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY): The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is a government initiative aimed at providing access to financial services to all households in India. This initiative has helped to provide financial assistance to millions of individuals and has reduced poverty.
• Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan is a government initiative aimed at improving the cleanliness and sanitation of India’s cities and rural areas. This initiative has helped to improve the quality of life of millions of individuals and has reduced poverty.
• National Health Mission (NHM): The National Health Mission (NHM) is a government initiative aimed at providing affordable and accessible healthcare to all individuals in India. This initiative has helped to improve the health and well-being of millions of individuals and has reduced poverty.
• Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is a government initiative aimed at providing crop insurance to farmers in India. This initiative has helped to improve the financial stability of farmers and has reduced poverty in rural areas.

Challenges in Addressing Poverty

Despite the government’s efforts to address poverty, several challenges persist, including:

• Corruption: Corruption is a significant challenge facing India and undermines the effectiveness of government initiatives aimed at addressing poverty. Corruption reduces the effectiveness of poverty alleviation programs by diverting funds away from their intended purpose.
• Limited resources: India is a developing country with limited resources, and addressing poverty requires significant investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and job creation. Limited resources can constrain the government’s ability to address poverty effectively.
• Inadequate implementation: The success of government initiatives to address poverty is heavily dependent on their effective implementation. Inadequate implementation can limit the effectiveness of poverty alleviation programs and prevent them from reaching their intended beneficiaries.
• Lack of political will: Addressing poverty requires sustained political will and commitment from government officials. Without this commitment, poverty alleviation programs may be underfunded or abandoned altogether.

Poverty is a significant challenge facing India, and addressing it requires a sustained and comprehensive effort. The government has implemented several initiatives aimed at addressing poverty, including job creation, financial assistance, improved healthcare, and sanitation. However, several challenges persist, including corruption, limited resources, inadequate implementation, and a lack of political will.

Addressing these challenges requires sustained political will and a commitment to addressing poverty at all levels of government. Only then can India achieve its goal of reducing poverty and improving the quality of life for all its citizens.

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UPSC Essay Topic wise Question Papers of last 31 years (1993-2023) for Civil Services IAS/IPS Exam Free Download

In the UPSC mains examination, essay paper is worth 250 marks and three hours. Here is the topic wise questions from the earlier years for the benefit of civil service IAS IPS aspirants.

1.1 India Since Independence

1.2 federalism, decentralization, 1.3 administration, 1.4 judiciary, 1.5 poverty, social justice, 1.6 indian society, culture and values, 1.7 media, tv & cinema, literature, 2.1 growth vs development, 2.2 environment vs development, 2.4 sectors of economy, 3.1 values in education, 3.2 scheme implementation, 3.3 higher education, 4.1 character, honesty, ethics, 4.2 knowledge, 4.3 compassion, 4.4 truth and reality, 4.5 youth, discipline, 4.6 towards excellence, 5.1 @national politics, 5.2 @world / quote type, 5.3 empowerment overall, 5.4 compared to men, 6.1 globalization, 6.2 international org./ bilateral, 6.3 security, 6.4 history, 7.1 science and religion, 7.2 science and education, 7.3 computer and internet, 7.4 sci-tech: others, appendix: linear paper of upsc essay 2023, appendix: linear paper of upsc essay 2022, appendix: model answer pe free lecture & powerpoint, appendix: syllabus of essay paper in upsc, 1 india: democracy, administration, society, culture.

• Is the Colonial mentality hindering India’s Success? -2013
• In the context of Gandhiji’s views on the matter, explore, on an evolutionary scale, the terms ‘Swadhinata’, ‘Swaraj’ and ‘Dharmarajya’. Critically comment on their contemporary relevance to Indian democracy -2012
• Dreams which should not let India sleep. -2015
• Why should we be proud of being Indians? -2000
• Whither Indian democracy? -1995
• How far has democracy in India delivered the goods? -2003
• What we have not learnt during fifty years of independence. -1997
• What have we gained from our democratic set-up? -2001
• My vision of India in 2001 a.d. -1993
• Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India. -2017
• Water disputes between States in federal India. -2016
• Cooperative federalism : Myth or reality. -2016
• Creation of smaller states and the consequent administrative, economic and developmental implication -2011
• Evaluation of panchayati raj system in India from the point of view of eradication of power to people. -2007
• Water resources should be under the control of the central government. -2004
• The language problem in India: its past, present and prospects. -1998
• There are better practices to “best practices”. -2021
• How should a civil servant conduct himself? -2003
• Politics without ethics is a disaster. -1995
• The VIP cult is a bane of Indian democracy -1996
• Need for transparency in public administration -1996
• The country’s need for a better disaster management system. -2000
• Politics, bureaucracy and business – fatal triangle. -1994
• We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws. -2017
• Justice must reach the poor -2005
• Judicial activism and Indian democracy. -2004
• Judicial activism. -1997
• A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (- जिस समाज में अधिक न्याय होता है उस समाज को दान की कम आवश्यकता होती है।) – 2023
• There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless (बिना आर्थिक समृद्धि के सामाजिक न्याय नहीं हो सकता, किन्तु बिना सामाजिक न्याय के आर्थिक समृद्धि निरर्थक है ) -2020
• Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness. -2019
• The focus of health care is increasingly getting skewed towards the ‘haves’ of our society. -2009
• Food security for sustainable national development -2005
• Reservation, politics and empowerment. -1999
• Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have (जो हम है, वह संस्कार; जो हमारे पास है, वह सभ्यता ) -2020
• Indian culture today: a myth or a reality? -2000
• Modernism and our traditional socio-ethical values. -2000
• The composite culture of India. -1998
• The Indian society at the crossroads. -1994
• From traditional Indian philanthropy to the gates-buffet model-a natural progression or a paradigm shift? -2010
• New cults and godmen: a threat to traditional religion -1996
• Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy. -2019
• Responsibility of media in a democracy. -2002
• Role of media in good governance -2008
• Does Indian cinema shape our popular culture or merely reflect it? -2011
• How has satellite television brought about cultural change in Indian mindsets? -2007
• Is sting operation an invasion on privacy? -2014
• Mass media and cultural invasion. -1999
• The misinterpretation and misuse of freedom in India. -1998
• Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world (कवि संसार के अनधिकृत रूप से विधायक होते हैं) – 2022

2 Economy, Development

• Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere. -2018
• Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality. -2016
• Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare. -2016
• Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms. -2016
• Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. -2015
• Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country? -2014
• GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the wellbeing of a country-2013
• Can capitalism bring inclusive growth? -2015
• Resource management in the Indian context. -1999
• Economic growth without distributive justice is bound to breed violence. -1993
• Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence (आर्थिक समृद्धि हासिल करने के मामले में वन सर्वोत्तम प्रतिमान होते हैं।) – 2022
• Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India. -2018
• Should a moratorium be imposed on all fresh mining in tribal areas of the country? -2010
• Urbanisation and its hazards -2008
• Protection of ecology and environment is essential for sustained economic development. -2006
• Urbanization is a blessing in disguise. -1997
• Ecological considerations need not hamper development. -1993
• Globalization would finish small-scale industries in India. -2006
• Multinational corporations – saviours or saboteurs -1994
• Special economic zone: boon or bane -2008
• Is the criticism that the ‘Public-Private-Partnership’ (PPP) model for development is more of a bane than a boon in the Indian context, justified ?-2012
• Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India. -2017
• BPO boom in India. -2007
• Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India? -2014
• Are our traditional handicrafts doomed to a slow death? -2009

3 Education

• Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in – school. (- शिक्षा वह है जो विद्यालय में विधालय में सीखी गई बातों को भूल जाने के बाद भी शेष रह जाती है।)
• Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms. -2017
• Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man more clever devil-2015
• Independent thinking should be encouraged right form the childhood. -2007
• Are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress? -2014
• Irrelevance of the classroom. -2001
• Is the growing level of competition good for the youth? -2014
• Literacy is growing very fast, but there is no corresponding growth in education. -1996
• Is an egalitarian society possible by educating the masses ? -2008
• What is real education? -2005
• “Education for all” campaign in India: myth or reality. -2006
• Restructuring of Indian education system. -1995
• Privatization of higher education in India. -2002
• Credit – based higher education system – status, opportunities and challenges -2011

4 Quote based, Philosophy, Ethics

• A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities (हर असमंजस के लिए मुस्कराहट ही चुनिन्दा साधन है) – 2022
• Philosophy of wantlessness is a Utopian, while materialism is a chimera. -2021
• Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me. -2021
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication (सरलता चरम परिष्करण है ) -2020
• Ships don’t sink because of water around them ships sink because of water that gets into them (जहाज अपने चारों तरफ के पानी के वजह से नहीं डूबा करते, जहाज पानी के अंदर समां जाने की वजह से डूबता हैं ) -2020
• Life is a long journey between being human and being humane.  (मनुष्य होने और मानव बनने के बीच का लम्बा सफर ही जीवन है)-2020
• Values are not what humanity is, but what humanity ought to be -2019
• Best for an individual is not necessarily best for the society -2019
• Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success -2019
• Wisdom finds truth -2019
• A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both. -2018
• Customary morality cannot be a guide to modem file. -2018
• Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed. -2016
• Character of an institution is reflected in its leader. -2015
• With greater power comes greater responsibility. -2014
• Words are sharper than the two-edged sword. -2014
• Attitude makes, habit makes character and character makes a man. -2007
• He would reigns within himself and folds his passions and desires and fears is more than a king. -1993
• Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (- सोच एक खेल की तरह है, यह तब तक शुरू नहीं होता है जब तक कि एक विपरीत टीम/पक्ष न हो।) – 2023
• Mathematics is the music of reason. (- गणित ज्ञान का संगीत है।) – 2023
• The real is rational and the rational is real. -2021
• Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self (विचारपरक संकल्प स्वयं के शांतचित्त रहने का उत्प्रेरक है )-2020
• ‘The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values. -2018
• A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge. -2018
• There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so. -2003
• Disinterested intellectual curiosity is the lifeblood of civilisation. -1995
• Joy is the simplest form of gratitude. -2017
• Compassion is the basic of all morality of the world -1993
• Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole. -2015
• Be the change you want to see in others (Gandhi)-2013
• Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right (केवल इसलिए कि आपके पास विकल्प हैं, इसका यह अर्थ कदापि नहीं है कि उनमें से किसी को भी ठीक होना ही होगा) – 2022
• Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it. -2018
• Truth is lived, not taught -1996
• When money speaks, the truth is silent. -1995
• Search for truth can only be a spiritual problem. -2002
• The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining (छप्पर मरम्मत करने का समय तभी होता है, जब धूप खिली हुई हो) – 2022
• You cannot step twice in the same river (आप उसी नदी में दोबारा नहीं उतर सकते) – 2022
• Discipline means success, anarchy means ruin -2008
• Youth is a blunder, manhood a struggle, old age a regret -1994
• If youth knew, if age could. -2002
• Youth culture today. -1999
• Fifty Golds in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India? -2014
• Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (- दूरदर्शी निर्णय तभी लिए जाते है अंतर्ज्ञान और तर्क का परस्पर मेल होता है।) – 2023
• Not all who wander are lost. (- भटकने वाले सभी गुम नहीं हो जाते।) – 2023
• Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane (- रचनात्मकता की प्रेरणा अलौकिक ता में चमत्कार ढूंढने के प्रयास से उपजति है) – 2023
• A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for (जहाज बन्दरगाह के भीतर सुरक्षित होता है, परन्तु इसके लिए तो वह होता नहीं है) – 2022
• Quick but steady wins the race. -2015
• Useless life is an early death. -1994
• Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds. -1995
• The paths of glory lead but to the grave. -2002
• The pursuit of excellence. -2001

5 Women empowerment

• Greater political power alone will not improve women’s plight. -1997
• Women’s reservation bill would usher in empowerment for women in India. -2006
• The new emerging women power: the ground realities. -1995
• Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world. -2021
• If women ruled the world -2005
• The hand that rocks the cradle -2005
• Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality (पितृ-सत्ता की व्यवस्था नजर मैं बहुत काम आने के बावजूद सामाजिक विषमता की सबसे प्रभावी संरचना है) -2020
• Fulfilment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth. -2017
• If development is not engendered, it is endangered. -2016
• Whither women’s emancipation? -2004
• Empowerment alone cannot help our women. -2001
• Women empowerment: challenges and prospects. -1999
• Woman is god’s best creation. -1998
• Men have failed: let women take over. -1993
• Managing work and home – is the Indian working woman getting a fair deal ?-2012

6 International issues, Internal Security, History

• South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities. -2019
• Modernisation and westernisation are not identical concepts. -1994
• ‘globalization’ vs. ‘nationalism’ -2009
• National identity and patriotism -2008
• Globalizations and its impact on Indian culture. -2004
• The masks of new imperialism. -2003
• As civilization advances culture declines. -2003
• The implications of globalization for India. -2000
• My vision of an ideal world order. -2001
• India’s contribution to world wisdom. -1998
• The world of the twenty-first century. -1998
• Preparedness of our society for India’s global leadership role. -2010
• Technology as the silent factor in international relations (अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संबंधों मैं मौन करक के रूप मैं प्रौद्योगिकी) -2020
• Has the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world ? -2017
• Restructuring of UNO reflect present realities -1996
• The global order: political and economic -1993
• India’s role in promoting ASEAN co-operation. -2004
• Importance of Indo-US nuclear agreement -2006
• Management of Indian border dispute is a complex task. -2018
• In the Indian context , both human intelligence and technical intelligence are crucial in combating terrorism -2011
• Are we a ‘soft’ state ? -2009
• Good fences make good neighbours -2009
• Is autonomy the best answer to combat balkanization? -2007
• Terrorism and world peace -2005
• True religion cannot be misused. -1997
• History repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as farce. -2021
• Geography may remain the same ; history need not. -2010

7 Science-Technology

• Spirituality and scientific temper. -2003
• Science and Mysticism : Are they compatible ?-2012
• What is research, but a blind date with knowledge! -2021
• Modern technological education and human values. -2002
• Value-based science and education. -1999
• The march of science and the erosion of human values. -2001
• The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced. -2021
• Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling. -2019
• ‘Social media’ is inherently a selfish medium. -2017
• Cyberspace and Internet : Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run -2016
• Increasing computerization would lead to the creation of a dehumanized society. -2006
• The cyberworld: its charms and challenges. -2000
• Computer: the harbinger of silent revolution. -1993
• Technology cannot replace manpower. -2015
• Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation-2013
• The modern doctor and his patients. -1997
• The lure of space. -2004

Section-A (write any one)

• Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (- सोच एक खेल की तरह है, यह तब तक शुरू नहीं होता है जब तक कि एक विपरीत टीम/पक्ष न हो।)
• Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (- दूरदर्शी निर्णय तभी लिए जाते है अंतर्ज्ञान और तर्क का परस्पर मेल होता है।)
• Not all who wander are lost. (- भटकने वाले सभी गुम नहीं हो जाते।)
• Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane (- रचनात्मकता की प्रेरणा अलौकिक ता में चमत्कार ढूंढने के प्रयास से उपजति है)

Section-B (write any one)

• Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines. (-लड़कियां बंदिशों के तथा लड़के अपेक्षा के बोझ तले दबे हुए होते हैं दोनों ही समान रूप से हानिकारक व्यवस्थाएं हैं।)
• Mathematics is the music of reason. (- गणित ज्ञान का संगीत है।)
• A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (- जिस समाज में अधिक न्याय होता है उस समाज को दान की कम आवश्यकता होती है।)

Answer one-one essay from each section in 1000-1200 words

• History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man (इतिहास वैज्ञानिक मनुष्य के रूमानी मनुष्य पर विजय हासिल करने का एक सिलसिला है।) – 2022
• A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for (जहाज बन्दरगाह के भीतर सुरक्षित होता है, परन्तु इसके लिए तो वह होता नहीं है) & 2022
• Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right (केवल इसलिए कि आपके पास विकल्प हैं, इसका यह अर्थ कदापि नहीं है कि उनमें से किसी को भी ठीक होना ही होगा) – 2022

Essay: Candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics. They will be expected to keep closely to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in orderly fashion, and to write concisely. Credit will be given for effective and exact expression.

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UPSC Essentials | Society and Social Justice: Poverty and associated issues (Part 2)

What is the 'pain of poverty' what makes urban poor differ from rural poor pranay aggarwal explains by citing reports, data and research analysis. stay tuned for part 3 on poverty..

(In UPSC Essentials’ series  ‘Society & Social Justice’ , which we have started for social issues topics of UPSC CSE, our subject experts will give an overview of the theme from both, static and dynamic points of view. Our first three topics were ‘Population’ , ‘Urbanisation’, and ‘Literacy’. For the month of October, we take up the topic of  ‘Poverty and associated issues’ . In part 1, we discussed about the basic concept, causes, measuring poverty, poverty’s link with inequality and hunger. In part 2, Manas Srivastava  talks to  Pranay Aggarwal  about urban and rural poor, pain of poverty, and more. Don’t miss the interesting quotes and introduction lines he shares towards the end of the interview.)

About the Expert:   Pranay Aggarwal  is an educator and mentor for aspirants preparing for UPSC Civil Services examination. With more than 10 years of experience guiding civil service aspirants, he is acknowledged as an expert on civil service exam preparation, especially on subjects like Social Issues and Sociology. He is the India representative on Research Committee on Education for UNESCO’s International Sociological Association and a member of Indian Sociological Society’s committee on social movements. He is also the Convenor of Indian Civil Services Association, a think tank of senior bureaucrats.

Relevance: Poverty is one of the most asked themes in social issues and related papers of UPSC. It is interconnected with various other themes like population, unemployment, hunger etc. Your coverage of the topic must include both static and current affairs dimensions of Poverty. It is an important theme in  GS I (Society), GS II, GS III, Prelims and personality test.  Aspirants will find it relevant for  Essays  as well.

Manas: Often heard in news are terms  ‘urban’ and ‘rural’ poor? Who are they? Can you briefly discuss a related past year’s UPSC question – Micro finance as an anti-poverty vaccine is aimed at assest creation and income security of the rural poor in India.

Pranay Aggarwal: The terms ‘urban’ and ‘rural’ poor refer to two distinct groups of individuals experiencing poverty in different settings, namely, urban and rural areas. According to NITI Aayog , the proportion of multidimensionally poor in urban areas stood at 5.2 per cent of the urban population in 2019-21, while in rural areas it was nearly four times higher at 19.2 per cent of the population. Interestingly, rural areas have also witnessed a much faster rate of poverty reduction than urban areas. The poverty in rural areas declined from 32.5 per cent in 2015-16 to 19.2 per cent in 2019-2021. During the same period, the urban areas saw a reduction in poverty from 8.6 per cent to only 5.2 per cent.

Here’s some insight into these two categories:

— The urban poor are individuals and households residing in urban areas — including metros, cities and towns; who experience poverty.

— Urban poverty is often characterised by challenges such as high living costs, limited access to affordable housing, and inadequate sanitation and healthcare facilities.

— Employment in the informal sector is common among the urban poor, which may involve jobs in street vending, construction, domestic work, or small-scale trading.

— While urban areas offer better employment opportunities compared to rural regions, they also have a higher cost of living, making it challenging for the urban poor to make ends meet.

— Microfinance initiatives in urban areas often focus on providing small loans for income-generating activities, skills development, and access to financial services to help the urban poor escape poverty. These programmes may also support asset creation, such as small businesses, to enhance income security.

— The rural poor comprise of the individuals and households residing in rural areas, which are typically characterised by poor living conditions and over dependence on agriculture as a source of livelihood.

— Rural poverty is often associated with factors such as landlessness, low agricultural productivity, limited access to education and healthcare, and a lack of infrastructure.

— Agriculture is a primary source of livelihood for many in rural areas, and fluctuations in crop yields and income can impact the rural poor’s economic stability.

— The rural poor are more constrained by traditional restraints of caste, gender and ethnicity while trying to escape poverty; than the urban poor.

— The rural poor often face challenges related to limited access to formal financial services, which can hinder their ability to save, invest, and manage income effectively.

— The microfinance programs aimed at rural poverty, such as the SHG-Bank Linkage Program, focus on providing access to credit, savings, and insurance services to promote financial inclusion, asset creation, and income security for the rural poor. Microfinance can also support the development of small-scale enterprises, farm activities, and other income-generating projects.

— Addressing rural poverty is indeed a significant challenge. Microfinance plays a crucial role in asset creation and income security for the rural poor by providing them with access to financial resources, promoting entrepreneurship, and enhancing economic opportunities. The ultimate goal is to help them break the cycle of poverty, achieve financial stability, and improve their overall quality of life.

Manas: What are the adverse consequences and ‘pains of poverty’ that the poor feel?

Pranay Aggarwal: Poverty is accompanied by a range of negative consequences and hardships. These consequences can affect various aspects of individuals’ lives, including their physical, emotional, and social well-being. Here are some of the common pains of poverty that the poor experience:

1. Food Insecurity: Hunger and malnutrition are prevalent among the poor due to their limited access to nutritious food. This can lead to physical health issues, stunted growth, and cognitive impairments, especially in children.

2. Inadequate Healthcare: Poor individuals often lack access to quality healthcare, leading to untreated illnesses and chronic health problems. The cost of medical care can be a significant burden for them.

3. Limited Access to Education: Poverty can hinder access to education, limiting opportunities for personal and professional growth. Children from impoverished backgrounds may not receive a quality education, limiting their future prospects.

4. Housing Instability: Poor households may struggle to afford safe and stable housing. This can result in overcrowding, homelessness, and exposure to environmental hazards.

5. Economic Stress: The constant financial stress and uncertainty associated with poverty can lead to anxiety, depression, and mental health issues. Poor individuals may also experience a lack of control over their lives.

6. Social Exclusion: Poverty can lead to social isolation and exclusion. Individuals may face discrimination, stigmatisation, and exclusion from participation in community activities.

7. Unemployment and Underemployment: Limited job opportunities, low wages, and job insecurity can trap individuals in cycles of poverty, making it difficult to escape.

8. Reduced Life Expectancy: Poor living conditions, limited access to healthcare, and exposure to hazardous environments can lead to a shorter life expectancy for individuals in poverty.

9. Lack of Access to Clean Water and Sanitation: Poor communities may lack access to clean drinking water and proper sanitation facilities, which can result in waterborne diseases and poor hygiene.

10. Intergenerational Poverty: Poverty often persists across generations. Children born into poverty are more likely to experience the same hardships, creating a cycle of poverty that can be challenging to break.

11. Limited Savings and Financial Vulnerability: Poor individuals typically lack savings or a financial safety net, making them vulnerable to unexpected expenses or emergencies.

12. Reduced Social Mobility: Poverty can limit opportunities for upward social mobility, hindering the ability of individuals to improve their economic and social circumstances.

These pains of poverty are interconnected and can have long-lasting effects on individuals and their communities.

Addressing poverty requires a comprehensive approach that not only provides immediate relief but also focuses on addressing the root causes and breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty.

Manas: Covid-19 pandemic accelerated class inequalities and poverty in India. Your comments…

Pranay Aggarwal: The Covid-19 pandemic had a significant impact on exacerbating class-based inequality and poverty in India. One can point out some of the following factors leading to the unfortunate situation:

1. Economic disruption: The lockdowns and restrictions imposed to curb the spread of the virus led to widespread job losses and income reductions. Informal and low-skilled workers, who already had precarious employment, were disproportionately affected. Many of them lost their livelihoods, pushing them further into poverty.

2. Inadequate social safety nets: India’s social safety net programmes, while existing, often suffered from gaps in coverage and efficiency. The pandemic highlighted the need for more extensive and effective social protection systems to support those in need.

3. Access to healthcare: The pandemic exposed the disparities in access to healthcare. Poorer communities often lacked access to quality healthcare facilities and faced challenges in receiving timely medical attention. The high healthcare costs associated with Covid-19 treatment placed additional financial burdens on affected families.

4. Education disruption: The closure of schools and the shift to online education disproportionately affected students from lower-income households who lacked access to necessary technology and a conducive learning environment. This disrupted their education and could lead to long-term consequences, limiting future opportunities.

5. Digital divide: The pandemic emphasized the digital divide, with many poorer individuals and families lacking access to the internet and technology, making it challenging for them to work or study remotely, access critical information, or benefit from e-commerce services.

6. Increased debt: Many individuals and families, particularly in the lower-income strata had to take on debt to meet essential needs during the pandemic. This has led to increased financial insecurity and a cycle of debt that could persist beyond the immediate crisis.

7. Impact on the informal sector: India has a substantial informal sector workforce. The lockdowns severely affected these workers, and many have struggled to regain their previous economic standing, leading to prolonged economic hardship.

8. Reverse migration: The pandemic triggered reverse migration as urban areas shut down. Rural areas received an influx of returning migrants, which strained local resources and created challenges for both rural and urban communities.

9. Entrepreneurial impact: Small and medium-sized businesses faced significant challenges during the pandemic. Many had to close or reduce operations, resulting in lost income for both business owners and employees.

A paper published by the IMF further suggests that the economic downturn associated with the pandemic temporarily increased poverty and inequality in India. The paper also suggests that the government’s expansion of food subsidies played a significant role in mitigating the increase in poverty during the pandemic.

A 2022 report by NCAER suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a serious reversal of poverty reduction which was in progress in India since the 1990s.

Interestingly, a well researched counter to such arguments has been presented by Aravind Panagariya in a recent paper. Addressing the accelerated class-based inequality and poverty resulting from the pandemic requires a multi-pronged approach. It includes strengthening social safety nets, improving healthcare infrastructure, enhancing access to education, and promoting inclusive economic growth. Additionally, targeted interventions to support the most vulnerable and marginalised populations are essential to mitigate the long-term consequences of the pandemic on poverty and inequality in India.

Manas: Such topics are expected in Essays too. Please suggest some impressive introductions and quotes related to poverty and poverty reduction for essays.

Pranay Aggarwal: Certainly, here are some impressive introductions and quotes related to the topic of poverty and inequality in India which students may find useful:

1. “Poverty is the worst form of violence.” – Mahatma Gandhi

2. “It is not enough to be compassionate. You must act.&quot”- 14th Dalai Lama

3. “Poverty is like punishment for a crime you didn’t commit.” – Eli Khamarov

4. “Overcoming poverty is not an act of charity; it is an act of justice.” – Nelson Mandela

5. Behind every statistic on poverty, there are real people with dreams,struggles, and untapped potential. Each person represents a unique struggle against a backdrop of hardship and a testament to the need for sustained efforts to reduce poverty.

6. The pursuit of a poverty-free India is not merely a governmental objective; it is the collective aspiration of a nation, an unwavering commitment to inclusivity and justice.

7. The vast inequalities in India are not just a matter of economics but also a challenge to its social fabric, testing the very idea of a fair and just society.

8. In the struggle against poverty, the battlefields are not just remote villages or crowded urban slums; they are the hearts and minds of individuals yearning for a life of dignity.

9. Poverty is not only the absence of wealth, it is a condition that robs individuals of their dignity, opportunities, and the ability to lead fulfilling lives. It is the presence of despair, an insidious force that silently gnaws at the roots of human dignity.

10. As we march along in the third decade of the 21st century, it is disheartening to acknowledge that poverty remains an all too familiar companion for a significant portion of the global population. Yet, it is also a testament to our collective will and determination that we persist in the fight to reduce and eventually eradicate this scourge.

In the upcoming third part on poverty we shall focus on questions such as:

What have been the anti-poverty strategies that India has applied so far?

Some case studies and success stories.

What is the way forward in dealing with poverty?

and many more points to ponder…

Previous topics on Society and Social Justice:

UPSC Essentials: Society & Social Justice | Population and associated issues (Part 1)

UPSC Essentials: Society & Social Justice | Population and associated issues (Part 2)

UPSC Essentials| Society & Social Justice — Urbanisation and associated issues (Part 1)

UPSC Essentials | Society & Social Justice : Urbanisation and associated issues (Part 2)

UPSC Essentials | Society & Social Justice : Urbanisation and associated issues (Part 3)

UPSC Essentials | Society & Social Justice : Literacy and associated issues (Part 1)

UPSC Essentials | Society & Social Justice : Literacy and associated issues (Part 2)

UPSC Essentials | Society & Social Justice : Literacy and associated issues (Part 3)

UPSC Essentials | Society & Social Justice : Poverty and associated issues (Part 1)

Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at manas.srivastava@ indianexpress.com . You can also post your doubts, questions, and suggest themes on topics related to  Society and Social Justice .

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Manas Srivastava is currently working as Deputy Copy Editor with The Indian Express (digital) and majorly writes for UPSC-related projects leading a unique initiative known as UPSC Essentials. In the past, Manas has represented India at the G-20 Youth Summit in Mexico. He is a former member of the Youth Council, GOI. A two-time topper/gold medallist in History (both in graduation and post-graduation) from Delhi University, he has mentored and taught UPSC aspirants for more than four years. His diverse role in The Indian Express consists of writing, editing, anchoring/ hosting, interviewing experts, and curating and simplifying news for the benefit of students. He hosts the YouTube talk show called ‘Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik’ and a LIVE series on Instagram and YouTube called ‘You Ask We Answer’.His talks on ‘How to read a newspaper’ focus on newspaper reading as an essential habit for students. His articles and videos aim at finding solutions to the general queries of students and hence he believes in being students' editor, preparing them not just for any exam but helping them to become informed citizens. This is where he makes his teaching profession meet journalism. He is also currently working on a monthly magazine for UPSC Aspirants. He is a recipient of the Dip Chand Memorial Award, the Lala Ram Mohan Prize and Prof. Papiya Ghosh Memorial Prize for academic excellence. He was also awarded the University’s Post-Graduate Scholarship for pursuing M.A. in History where he chose to specialise in Ancient India due to his keen interest in Archaeology. He has also successfully completed a Certificate course on Women’s Studies by the Women’s Studies Development Centre, DU. As a part of N.S.S in the past, Manas has worked with national and international organisations and has shown keen interest and active participation in Social Service. He has led and been a part of projects involving areas such as gender sensitisation, persons with disability, helping slum dwellers, environment, adopting our heritage programme. He has also presented a case study on ‘Psychological stress among students’ at ICSQCC- Sri Lanka. As a compere for seminars and other events he likes to keep his orating hobby alive. His interests also lie in International Relations, Governance, Social issues, Essays and poetry. ... Read More

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UPSC Essay Topics - Important Essay Topics for UPSC Mains 2023

By vajiram & ravi.

Essay Course for UPSC

UPSC CSE Mains 2023 Essay Question Paper

UPSC Mains Optional Test Series

Mentorship Program for UPSC 2024

Understanding UPSC Essay Topics holds significant importance as it evaluates the candidate's ability to analyse, present arguments, and communicate effectively. In this article, we will explore the diverse range of UPSC essay topics, their significance, and essential tips to excel in this section. Get ready to enhance your writing and analytical skills and make a strong impression on the evaluators with well-crafted essays.

UPSC Essay Paper

The Essay paper in the UPSC Mains examination requires candidates to write multiple essays , each on a different topic, chosen from a given list of options. The essay topics for UPSC cover a wide range of issues, including social, economic, political, cultural, and philosophical aspects, both national and international.

The essay paper holds significant weightage in the UPSC Mains examination, contributing 250 marks out of the total 1750 marks . Scoring well in this section can have a considerable impact on the overall ranking and selection for the coveted civil services.

Weekly UPSC Essay Topics By Vajiram & Ravi

The UPSC Essay Paper is an opportunity for candidates to demonstrate their proficiency in expressing ideas and analysing complex issues. Vajiram & Ravi Pensive-Weekly Essay Writing Programme provides you with two Essay Topics every Saturday based on the previous year's question papers and the changing trends analysis. You can submit your Essay for peer evaluation on vajiramandravi.com. This will help you nourish your writing skills, give you clarity of thought, and build the capacity to express opinions in a logical and coherent manner.

Important Essay Topics for UPSC 2023

The purpose of the essay paper is to assess the candidate's ability to critically analyse a topic, present well-structured arguments, and communicate their ideas effectively. It also evaluates their knowledge of various issues, their clarity of thought, and their capacity to express opinions in a logical and coherent manner.

Some of the Important Essay Topics to prepare for the UPSC Mains Examination 2023 are:

• Gender Equality
• Environment/Urbanization
• Economic Growth
• Federalism/Decentralization
• Agriculture
• Economics 

UPSC Essay Topics on Philosophy

Every year, UPSC typically provides you with two or more essay topics centred around philosophical thoughts, Indian philosophical schools, or quotes from notable personalities. To effectively address these philosophical topics, you should refer to Philosophy Books to gain a foundational understanding. Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics on Philosophy :

• Everything comes to him, who hustles while he waits.
• We are always blind as we want to be.
• You cannot step twice in the same river.
• A disciplined mind brings happiness.
• The price of Greatness is Responsibility.
• People would rather Believe than Know.
• Mind - A beautiful Servant? Or a dangerous Master?

UPSC Essay Topics on Art and Culture

The UPSC Essay Topics related to Indian society, art, and culture cover a wide range of subjects, offering great diversity. To gain knowledge about the static content on these topics, you should rely on fundamental books on society, as recommended for the exam. Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics on Indian Art and Culture :

• Culture changes with economic development.
• Culture is what we are, Civilization is what we have.
• Social reform is a myth if places of worship are open only to all castes and not to all genders.
• Impact of Globalization on Indian Art and Culture.
• Caste System - India’s Enduring Curse.
• Godmen - A Threat to Indian Art and Culture?

UPSC Essay Topics on Science and Technology

UPSC essay topics on Science and Technology can largely be addressed through current affairs. You may also benefit from consulting a Science and Technology Book for UPSC to compose a comprehensive and well-rounded essay. Here are some UPSC Essay Topics on Science and Technology:

• Deglobalisation is good for the world.
• Science is organised Knowledge. Wisdom is Organised life.
• Technology is a Weapon against Poverty.
• Prioritising Education Technology for Global Growth.
• Technology is the silent factor in International Relations.
• Scientific and Technological Progress cannot be equated with Human Progress.

UPSC Essay Topics on Education

Education stands as one of the preferred UPSC Essay Topics, with an essay related to this subject often appearing in the paper each year. To tackle this topic effectively, you should stay abreast of Current Affairs , incorporating significant changes and advancements in the field. Let's explore some of the Essay topics for UPSC centred around education:

• Self Education is a lifelong curiosity.
• Education Breeds Peace.
• Education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance.
• Education must also train one for quick, resolute and effective thinking.
• Schooling is not Education.

UPSC Essay Topics on Polity and Governance

To comprehensively address Polity and Governance topics, you should acquire fundamental knowledge from Polity Books for UPSC and Current Affairs. These resources offer static information about relevant issues and their historical context, which proves valuable while writing UPSC Essay Topics on Polity. Here are some Essay Topics on Polity and Governance:

• The Role of Politics in Development.
• Should Youth in India Consider Politics as a Career?
• Art, Freedom and Creativity will change society faster than politics.
• The politics of Identity is the Politics of the Weak.
• People should not be afraid of their Government. The Government should be afraid of its people.
• Government Surveillance - Good or Bad?

UPSC Essay Topics on Economy

Essays concerning economic growth are frequently included in the Essay Paper. To tackle these topics effectively, you should refer to Economy Notes for UPSC to gain a comprehensive understanding. Once the fundamentals are grasped, you can enhance their essays by incorporating examples, data, and statistics to create a multidimensional perspective. Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics on Economy:

• We don't have to sacrifice a Strong Economy for a Healthy Environment.
• India, a $5 trillion Economy - Dream or Reality?
• Digital Economy: A leveller or a source of Economic Inequality?
• Innovation is the key determinant of social welfare and economic growth.
• Labour Reforms in India and its Role in Economic Growth.

UPSC Essay Topics on Social Issues

Social issues are a significant aspect of the UPSC essay paper, reflecting the candidates' understanding of societal challenges and their ability to propose viable solutions. These essays provide a platform for candidates to analyse, critique, and suggest measures for pressing social concerns. Topics related to social issues in the UPSC Essay paper may include:

• Inclusivity and Plurality are the hallmarks of a Peaceful Society.
• A Gender-sensitive Indian Society is a prerequisite for Women and Child Empowerment.
• The weaker sections of Indian Society - are their Rights and Access to Justice getting Better?

Previous Year UPSC Essay Topics

Practising previous year's essay topics will help you become familiar with the UPSC exam pattern , word limit, and the types of essay questions frequently asked in the Mains Examination. Analysing past essay topics will also allow you to identify recurring themes and trends, enabling you to prioritise their preparation accordingly. Regular practice with past essay topics will instil confidence in you, helping you feel more comfortable and prepared for the actual exam.

• Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence.
• Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world.
• History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man.
• A ship in the harbour is safe, but that is not what a ship is for.
• The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.
• A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities.
• Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right.

Tips to Excel in UPSC Essay Paper

• Understand the Topics: Thoroughly comprehend the essay topics, including the keywords and instructions. Choose a topic that aligns with your strengths and interests.
• Plan and Structure: Devote some time to plan your essay. Create an outline and organise your thoughts in a structured manner, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
• Be Objective: Present balanced arguments and avoid a biased or one-sided approach. Consider multiple perspectives and present a holistic view.
• Provide Examples and Evidence: Support your arguments with relevant examples, data, quotes and evidence to strengthen your essay.
• Maintain Clarity: Write in a clear and concise manner. Use simple language and avoid jargon or overly complex vocabulary.
• Practice Regularly: Regular practice is essential to improve Essay writing skills. Write essays on diverse topics to enhance your versatility.
• Time Management: Allocate appropriate time for planning, writing, and revising each essay to manage time effectively during the examination.
• Revise and Edit: Review your essays for coherence, grammar, and structure. Make necessary edits to refine your work.

FAQs on UPSC Essay Topics

What are the important UPSC Essay Topics?

Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics asked in Mains Examination previously:

• Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have.
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
• What is research but a blind date with knowledge?
• Best for an individual is not necessarily best for society.
• Wisdom finds truth.
• Ships don’t sink because of water around them, ships sink because of water that gets into them.
• Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality.
• Technology as the silent factor in international relations.

How do I Prepare for the UPSC Essay?

To prepare for the UPSC essay, focus on understanding the essay syllabus and past topics to identify recurring themes. Regularly practise writing essays on various topics to improve your writing skills and time management. Structure your essays with a clear introduction, main body, and conclusion.

Which is the best source to practise UPSC Essay Topics?

The best sources to prepare Essay for UPSC include official UPSC materials, newspapers, and magazines like The Hindu, Yojana , and Kurukshetra for current affairs, standard books on diverse subjects, government reports and publications, online platforms like PIB and PRS India, UPSC previous year papers for understanding the exam pattern, and regular practice of essay writing on various topics.

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