MARCHING ON THE PATH OF INCLUSIVITY TO ACHIEVE 'ZERO-POVERTY'

'Viksit Bharat' encompasses zero-poverty; access to high-quality, affordable, and comprehensive healthcare; 100% skilled labour with meaningful employment; 70% women in economic activities; and farmers making our country the 'food basket of the world'

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India has achieved significant milestones in its fight against poverty, underscoring its commitment to uplifting the most vulnerable.

According to the World Bank's Spring 2025 Poverty and Equity Brief, the nation has lifted 171 million people out of extreme poverty over the past decade. The share of the population living on less than $2.15 per day fell sharply — from 16.2% in 2011-12 to just 2.3% in 2022-23.

At the $3.65 per day benchmark for lower-middle-income countries, poverty declined from 61.8% to 28.1%, translating to 378 million people moving above this line. Furthermore, India's Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) — which accounts for deprivations beyond income, including health, education, and living standards — dropped from 53.8% in 2005-06 to 16.4% in 2019-21. These achievements reflect a transformative shift in the lives of millions and mark a critical step forward in India's mission to serve the poor and marginalised.

The next five years is seen as a unique opportunity to realise 'Sabka Vikas'. India's economy is the fastest-growing among all major global economies. The nation's development track record over the past decade, along with its structural reforms, has drawn global attention. Confidence in India's capability and potential has only grown in this period.