Poverty in India Overview

What percentage of the population in India was living in poverty during 2011-12?

Which of the following correctly describes urban poverty as exemplified in the chapter?

What is one of the significant challenges regarding poverty discussed in the chapter?

What term is used in the chapter to describe the minimum income threshold that distinguishes the impoverished?

Which demographic is not specifically highlighted as impoverished in the chapter?

What is the primary source of income for Lakha Singh?

What role does the mother play in the urban family described?

Which factor is NOT listed as contributing to rural poverty?

What is a common condition experienced by Lakha Singh's family?

What item is considered a luxury for Lakha Singh's family?

How does child labor affect the children in the families described?

What type of living situation does the urban family face?

What is a direct impact of poor health on the families described?

Poverty in India

Poverty is a significant challenge in India, affecting a large portion of the population.
Approximately 270 million people (17 crore) were living in poverty in India during 2011-12.
Poverty is evident across various regions, from rural areas to urban slums.

Understanding Poverty

Poverty can be observed through various indicators, including lack of access to basic necessities, limited income, and poor health.

Case Studies: Urban and Rural Poverty

Rameshron, a daily wage laborer in Ranchi, Jharkhand, struggles to support his family on a monthly income of ₹1500, highlighting the challenges of urban poverty.
Lakha Singh, a landless laborer in a village, experiences inconsistent work and struggles to meet his family's needs, highlighting the realities of rural poverty.
Another family in a crowded urban area relies on the mother's work as a servant and faces challenges with limited income and inadequate food and clothing.

Contributing Factors to Rural Poverty

Lack of land ownership: Limits employment opportunities and income.
Unemployment or underemployment: Leads to inconsistent or low-paying work.
Large family size: Strains resources and reduces opportunities for individual advancement.
Illiteracy: Restricts access to quality education and better employment prospects.
Poor health and malnutrition: Decreases productivity and limits livelihood options.
Child labor: Forces children into work, hindering their educational and future prospects.
Lack of support structures: Limits the capacity for survival and advancement.

This quiz explores the multifaceted issue of poverty in India, encompassing both urban and rural perspectives. Through case studies and indicators, it highlights the struggles faced by millions in accessing basic necessities and maintaining livelihoods. Understand the drastic realities that define poverty across various regions.