Overview

Since 1973, India has made significant progress in reducing poverty levels. The country has implemented various socio-economic policies and programs to address poverty and improve the living conditions of its population. However, despite these efforts, poverty continues to be a pressing issue in India.

1973-1991: Slow Progress
- During this period, poverty reduction efforts in India were relatively slow.
- The Green Revolution in the 1960s and 1970s resulted in increased agricultural productivity, but the benefits were unevenly distributed.
- Economic policies focused on industrialization, which led to urban growth and job creation but did not have a significant impact on poverty levels.
- Poverty rates remained high, with a large portion of the population living in extreme poverty.

1991-2000: Economic Reforms and Mixed Results
- In 1991, India implemented economic reforms aimed at liberalizing the economy and reducing poverty.
- These reforms led to increased foreign investment, technological advancements, and economic growth.
- Poverty rates showed some improvement, but progress was uneven across different states and regions.
- Urban areas experienced more significant reductions in poverty compared to rural areas.
- Disparities between the rich and the poor widened during this period.

2000-2011: Accelerated Poverty Reduction
- The period between 2000 and 2011 witnessed accelerated poverty reduction in India.
- The government implemented various poverty alleviation programs such as the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) and the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).
- These programs aimed to provide employment opportunities, improve rural infrastructure, and enhance access to basic services.
- Poverty rates declined at a faster pace during this period, with significant improvements in rural areas.
- The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) reported a decline in poverty rates from 37% in 2004-05 to 21% in 2011-12.

2011-Present: Persistent Challenges
- Despite the progress made, poverty remains a persistent challenge in India.
- The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the situation, leading to job losses and economic hardships for many vulnerable populations.
- The World Bank estimated that the poverty rate in India increased from 20.7% in 2019 to 27.5% in 2020 due to the pandemic.
- The government has continued to implement various poverty alleviation schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), to address poverty and improve the living conditions of marginalized populations.

Conclusion
India has witnessed both progress and challenges in reducing poverty since 1973. While the country has made significant strides in poverty reduction, particularly between 2000 and 2011, persistent disparities and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have posed new challenges. Continued efforts and targeted interventions are crucial to further alleviate poverty and ensure inclusive growth in India.