Main Article Content
Abstract
Poverty infect is a socio-economic phenomenon that is intimately associated with inequality. It adversely affects human health, efficiency and productivity which in turn affect their income. It deprives a segment of society of bare necessities of life- food, clothing, housing, education and health. Poverty is more of social marginalization of an individual, household or group in the community/society rather than inadequacy of income to fulfill the basic needs. Indeed, inadequate income is therefore one of the factors of marginalization but not the sole factor. The goal of poverty alleviation programme should aim merely increasing the income level of individual, household or group but mainstreaming marginalized in the development process of the country. The country cannot claim economic growth when sections of the people are marginalized to the periphery of the society. The Reconstruction and Development Programme represent 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.In almost all underdeveloped countries where per capita income is very low, income inequality has resulted in a number of evils, of which poverty is certainly the most serious one. This percentage of population was considered to be poor on an international criterion suggested by World Development Report. So this paper is an attempt to study national policies, plans and programs for poverty eradication. 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. It also tries to capture the dilemma of the policymakers in addressing development and justice over the Successive plans in India.