New report shows increase in rural poor
New report shows increase in rural poor
New Delhi: Four out of 10 people in rural areas in India are poor, according to a new report—a significant change from an existing estimate dating back to 2004-05, the most recent data available, that pegs rural poverty at 28.5% (which means around three in 10 people in rural areas are poor).
The report, however, does show that poverty levels have declined from the mid-1990s.
If the government accepts the report, which is to be submitted next month, it will have implications for public policy, increase the fiscal burden on the government and lead to greater devolution of resources to states with larger number of poor people.
Also See Tracking The Poor (Graphics)
He added that even Arjun Sengupta has said over 76% of people in India are poor.
Photo by Ramesh Pathania / Mint and graphic by Ahmed Raza Khan / Mint
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