Introduction:
In India, there are several states that face economic challenges and are considered to be among the poorest. Among these states, Odisha and Bihar are often cited as the poorest states in the country. This can be attributed to several factors, including low per capita income, high poverty rates, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to education and healthcare facilities.

Low Per Capita Income:
- Odisha and Bihar have consistently reported low per capita income compared to other states in India.
- Per capita income is the average income earned per person in a specific region, and a low per capita income indicates lower economic development and lower living standards.

High Poverty Rates:
- Both Odisha and Bihar have high poverty rates, with a significant percentage of the population living below the poverty line.
- Poverty is a major determinant of the economic status of a state, affecting various aspects of life, including access to education, healthcare, and basic amenities.

Inadequate Infrastructure:
- Infrastructure plays a crucial role in the economic development of a state. However, both Odisha and Bihar have inadequate infrastructure, including roads, electricity, and sanitation facilities.
- Limited infrastructure hinders industrial growth, employment opportunities, and overall economic progress.

Limited Access to Education:
- Education is essential for socio-economic development. However, both states face challenges in providing quality education to their populations.
- High illiteracy rates, lack of educational institutions, and low enrollment ratios contribute to the economic backwardness of these states.

Limited Access to Healthcare:
- Access to healthcare is crucial for the well-being of individuals and communities. However, Odisha and Bihar struggle with limited healthcare facilities and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.
- This results in poor healthcare outcomes, higher disease prevalence, and lower life expectancy rates.

Conclusion:
The economic backwardness of Odisha and Bihar can be attributed to a combination of factors, including low per capita income, high poverty rates, inadequate infrastructure, limited access to education, and healthcare facilities. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from the state governments, policymakers, and various stakeholders to uplift the living standards and improve the overall socio-economic conditions of these states.