There are no existing concrete estimates of the number of poor and depth of poverty in India. Reason for it and explain the measures which can be taken to measure the poor. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment-

• In the introduction briefly explain what poverty is, and how is it measured.
• In the body discuss the aspects of poverty and the established measurement systems in the country. Point out the flaws associated with it. Then move on to highlight why it is important to have the poverty numbers. Discuss the current levels of poverty in the country. Suggest possible measures that need to be taken to quantify and qualify the definition of poverty.
• Conclude by reasserting the need to recognize defining poverty as a key thing central to policies and programme.