Poverty & Hunger — UPSC Mains GS-II Questions (2013–2025)

Inequality in the ownership pattern of resources is one of the major causes of poverty. Discuss in the context of ‘paradox of poverty’.

Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle, adversely affecting human capital formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle?

“The incidence and intensity of poverty are more important in determining poverty based on income alone.” In this context, analyse the latest United Nations Multidimensional Poverty Index Report.

There is a growing divergence in the relationship between poverty and hunger in India. The shrinking of social expenditure by the government is forcing the poor to spend more on non-food essential items, squeezing their food budget. Elucidate.

How far do you agree with the view that the focus on lack of availability of food as the main cause of hunger takes the attention away from ineffective human development policies in India?

‘Poverty alleviation programmes in India remain mere showpieces until and unless they are backed up by political will.’ Discuss with reference to the performance of the major poverty alleviation programmes in India.

Hunger and poverty are the biggest challenges for good governance in India still today. Evaluate how far successive governments have progressed in dealing with these humongous problems. Suggest measures for improvement.

Though there have been several different estimates of poverty in India, all indicate reduction in poverty levels over time. Do you agree? Critically examine with reference to urban and rural poverty indicators.