2. Briefly highlight the parameters used by the government to determine the extent of poverty in India. Examine the relationship of economic growth and poverty alleviation in the post-reforms era.

Approach:

♤ The answer should begin with a very brief definition of poverty, and how it is measured.

♤ Mention the different figures arrived at by Rangarajan and Tendulkar methodology.

♤ Then the answer should discuss the lack of consensus among scholars as to the efficacy of various methods and criteria to measure poverty estimates.

♤ The second part has to discuss the rise or fall of poverty with economic growth since the dawn of economic reforms. This part should end with an assessment with supportive argument.