Odisha Witnesses Significant Decline in Poverty Levels

Bhubaneswar: Odisha has recorded a significant decline in poverty levels over the past five years, as per the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) published by NITI Aayog in July 2023.

The MPI is a comprehensive measure of poverty that takes into account multiple dimensions, including health, education, and standard of living.

According to Odisha’s Minister of Planning & Coordination, Rajendra Dholakia, the MPI in the state has decreased from 29.35 percent to 15.68 percent between 2015-16 and 2019-20.

This decline is among the steepest in India, with Odisha being one of the five states to have witnessed a remarkable reduction in MPI.

Odisha’s performance is also commendable when compared to the national average, which has decreased from 24.85 percent to 14.96 percent over the same period.

The state’s success in reducing poverty can be attributed to a number of factors, including its focus on inclusive development, social welfare programs, and rural infrastructure development.