India’s resolute efforts to combat multidimensional poverty have yielded outstanding results, with an astounding 13.5 crore individuals breaking free from poverty between 2015-16 and 2019-21. The recently published ‘National Multidimensional Poverty Index: A Progress Review 2023′ report by NITI Aayog exemplifies the country’s unwavering commitment to sustainable and inclusive development. Drawing on the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) data, the report showcases improvements across 12 indicators, including health, education, and standard of living, resulting in a significant decline in the multidimensional poverty rate from 24.85% to 14.96%. India’s remarkable progress positions it well ahead of the SDGs’ 2030 target, underscoring the effectiveness of government initiatives focused on poverty eradication and inclusive growth.
The report, which builds upon the 2021 baseline report, follows a methodology aligned with global standards and incorporates data from the latest National Family Health Survey conducted between 2019 and 2021. Across all 12 indicators, including nutrition, child and adolescent mortality, maternal health, education, sanitation, and access to basic amenities, India has witnessed marked improvements. Notably, the report highlights a decline of 9.89 percentage points in the number of multidimensionally poor individuals, illustrating the tangible progress achieved.
The reduction in multidimensional poverty is most pronounced in rural areas, where the rate decreased from 32.59% to 19.28%. Urban areas also experienced a decline, going from 8.65% to 5.27%. Uttar Pradesh emerges as a standout performer, with 3.43 crore individuals escaping multidimensional poverty, marking the largest decline among all states.
India’s commendable progress is reflected in the National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) value, which has nearly halved from 0.117 to 0.066. Furthermore, the intensity of poverty has reduced from 47% to 44%. These achievements place India firmly on track to surpass SDG Target 1.2 of reducing multidimensional poverty by at least half well ahead of the 2030 deadline. The government’s strategic focus on inclusive development and poverty eradication has played a pivotal role in this remarkable feat.
Flagship programs like Poshan Abhiyan, Anaemia Mukt Bharat, Swachh Bharat Mission, Jal Jeevan Mission, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, PMAY, PMJDY, and Samagra Shiksha have significantly contributed to enhancing access to healthcare, sanitation, nutrition, cooking fuel, financial inclusion, housing, and education. The concerted efforts and consistent implementation of these well-linked initiatives have resulted in reduced deprivations across various indicators, showcasing the tangible impact of India’s poverty reduction strategies.