Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Social transformation in India, marked by economic liberalization, globalization, and demographic shifts, has paradoxically been accompanied by rising inequalities and persistent acute poverty. While economic growth has lifted millions out of poverty, its benefits have not been equitably distributed. Inequality, in its broadest sense, refers to the disparities in access to resources, opportunities, and power, while acute poverty signifies a condition of severe deprivation impacting basic needs. The interplay of these factors presents a significant challenge to achieving inclusive and sustainable social transformation in India. Recent reports indicate a widening gap between the richest and poorest segments of society, necessitating a nuanced understanding of these emerging dynamics.
Understanding Inequality and Acute Poverty
Inequality, sociologically, is not merely an economic phenomenon. It encompasses disparities based on caste, gender, religion, region, and access to education and healthcare. Acute poverty, beyond a lack of income, signifies a denial of basic human rights, including access to food, shelter, sanitation, and dignity. These two concepts are often intertwined, with inequality exacerbating poverty and vice versa.
Emerging Forms of Inequality in India
1. Economic Inequality
The economic liberalization of the 1990s led to increased income inequality. According to Oxfam India’s ‘State of Inequality in India’ report (2023), the top 10% of Indians own 77% of the country’s wealth, while the bottom 50% possess only 3%. This concentration of wealth is driven by factors like globalization, skill-biased technological change, and regressive tax policies. The rise of the ‘gig economy’ and precarious employment further contribute to income instability and inequality.
2. Social and Caste-Based Inequality
Despite affirmative action policies, caste-based discrimination continues to be a significant source of inequality. Dalits and Adivasis face systemic disadvantages in education, employment, and access to resources. Social mobility remains limited for many, perpetuating intergenerational inequality. Recent incidents of caste-based violence highlight the persistence of social hierarchies.
3. Gender Inequality
Gender inequality remains deeply entrenched in Indian society. Women face discrimination in education, employment, wages, and political representation. The female labor force participation rate (FLFPR) in India is alarmingly low, standing at around 32.5% (Periodic Labour Force Survey, 2022-23). Gender-based violence and limited access to property rights further exacerbate inequality.
4. Regional Inequality
Significant disparities exist between states in terms of economic development and social indicators. States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh lag behind in terms of per capita income, literacy rates, and healthcare access. This regional imbalance contributes to migration and social unrest.
5. Digital Divide
The rapid expansion of digital technology has created a new form of inequality – the digital divide. Access to internet and digital literacy is unevenly distributed, with rural areas and marginalized communities lagging behind. This digital divide limits access to information, education, and economic opportunities.
Acute Poverty in India: Dimensions and Challenges
1. Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)
The Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), released by the NITI Aayog, provides a more comprehensive measure of poverty than income-based measures. The MPI considers factors like health, education, and standard of living. According to the MPI (2023), 15.2% of India’s population is multidimensionally poor.
2. Vulnerability to Shocks
A significant proportion of the Indian population remains vulnerable to economic shocks, such as natural disasters, health crises, and job losses. Lack of social security and inadequate access to healthcare exacerbate their vulnerability.
3. Food Security and Malnutrition
Despite improvements in food production, malnutrition remains a major challenge in India, particularly among children and women. According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019-21), 35.5% of children under five are stunted.
4. Lack of Access to Basic Services
Millions of Indians lack access to basic services like clean water, sanitation, and electricity. This lack of access contributes to poor health outcomes and limits economic opportunities.
Challenges to Social Transformation
The persistence of inequality and acute poverty poses significant challenges to social transformation in India. These challenges include:
- Social unrest and conflict: Rising inequality can lead to social unrest and conflict, undermining social cohesion.
- Hindered economic growth: Inequality can stifle economic growth by limiting the purchasing power of a large segment of the population.
- Political instability: Poverty and inequality can fuel political instability and undermine democratic institutions.
- Reduced human capital development: Lack of access to education and healthcare limits human capital development, hindering long-term economic progress.
- Erosion of social justice: Persistent inequality undermines the principles of social justice and equality.
Conclusion
Addressing the emerging forms of inequality and acute poverty is crucial for achieving inclusive and sustainable social transformation in India. This requires a multi-pronged approach that includes progressive taxation, investment in education and healthcare, strengthening social safety nets, promoting gender equality, and addressing caste-based discrimination. Furthermore, fostering regional balance and bridging the digital divide are essential. A commitment to social justice and equitable development is paramount for realizing India’s full potential and ensuring a dignified life for all its citizens.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.