Q9. “An essential condition to eradicate poverty is to liberate the poor from the process of deprivation.” Substantiate this statement with suitable examples.

Model Answer:

Introduction

Eradicating poverty is not only about providing financial aid but also about liberating the poor from the systemic processes that perpetuate deprivation. Deprivation is a multi-dimensional problem, encompassing lack of access to education, healthcare, housing, and social opportunities. Addressing these root causes is key to achieving sustainable poverty eradication.

Body

Access to Education:

• Education empowers individuals by providing the skills and knowledge needed to secure better employment. Programs like Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan in India aim to make primary education accessible to all, reducing the cycle of poverty through literacy and skill development.
• By equipping the poor with vocational training and higher education opportunities, they can break free from low-wage jobs and move toward better economic prospects.

Healthcare Access:

• Deprivation in healthcare results in poor health outcomes, which in turn limits productivity and income. Initiatives like Ayushman Bharat provide health insurance to the underprivileged, ensuring access to affordable healthcare and reducing the financial burden of medical expenses.
• By improving health infrastructure, poor populations are less vulnerable to the poverty trap caused by illness and medical debts.

Financial Inclusion and Employment:

• Access to financial services like banking, credit, and insurance liberates the poor from exploitative moneylenders and allows them to invest in small businesses or education. The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana has facilitated financial inclusion for millions.
• Employment programs like Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) provide livelihood security, reducing the deprivation caused by unemployment and underemployment.

Conclusion

‍To eradicate poverty, it is essential to address the structural factors that cause deprivation. By improving access to education, healthcare, financial services, and employment opportunities, the poor can be liberated from the cycle of deprivation and empowered to lead better, more prosperous lives. Examples from India demonstrate how targeted programs can help alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development.

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