Poverty Alleviation in India: Intervention of Policies

Abstract

The Reconstruction and  Development Programme represents government's commitment to eradicate poverty. For this vision to materialize, policies must be orientated towards the provision of basic needs, the development of human resources and a growing economy which is capable of generating sustainable livelihoods. The success of government's strategy for growth, employment and redistribution (GEAR) is dependent on the maintenance of a sound fiscal and macro-economic framework. Rural development will contribute to this policy Eradication of poverty and provision of basic minimum services is integral elements of any strategy to improve the quality of life. No development process can be sustainable unless it leads to visible and widespread improvement in these areas. There is by now enough evidence to show that rapid growth has strong poverty reducing effects and given a public policy stance, which is sensitive to the needs of the poor a focus on accelerated growth will also help in realizing the objectives of alleviating poverty. Economic growth and employment opportunities in themselves may not be sufficient to improve the living conditions of the poor. They need to be accompanied by measures that enhance the social and physical conditions of existence. Against this backdrop, the paper, critically analyses the chronological evolution and reformation of poverty reduction strategy over the successive Five-Year Plans. It also tries to capture the dilemma of the policymakers in addressing development and justice over the Successive plans in India.