Understanding Poverty Line in Rural India (2011-2012)

The question asks about the poverty line set for a person in rural India during the years 2011-2012, based on specific calculations from that period. The poverty line is a critical measure used to identify the minimum income or consumption level necessary for basic subsistence.

In India, the poverty line is typically estimated based on consumption expenditure rather than income. Different committees and studies have proposed various methods and figures over time. The estimates for 2011-2012 were significant as they followed methodologies aimed at providing more comprehensive coverage of essential needs.

Calculating the Poverty Line

The poverty line for 2011-2012 was determined based on recommendations from an expert group, often referred to in the context of poverty estimation in India. This threshold represents the minimum expenditure required per person per month to meet basic food and non-food needs. The figures for rural and urban areas differ because of variations in price levels and consumption patterns.

Poverty Line for Rural India (2011-2012)

Based on the calculations for the 2011-2012 period, the poverty line for a person in rural India was fixed at a specific monthly expenditure amount. This amount is lower than the figure for urban areas, reflecting the generally lower cost of living in rural regions.

Let's look at the options provided:

• Rs. 816
• Rs. 752
• Rs. 1000
• Rs. 687

According to the official estimates derived from the 2011-2012 data, the poverty line for an individual in rural India was indeed set at Rs. 816 per month.

For comparison, the poverty line for a person in urban India during the same period was set at Rs. 1000 per month.

Summary Table: Poverty Line 2011-2012

Therefore, the poverty line for a person in rural India as per the 2011-2012 calculations was Rs. 816 per month.

Revision Table: Poverty Line Concepts

Additional Information on Poverty Estimation in India

Poverty estimation in India has evolved over time, with different expert groups providing recommendations. Some key aspects include:

• Historical Context: Early poverty estimates were based on minimum calorie intake.
• Expert Groups: Committees like the Alagh Committee, Lakdawala Committee, Tendulkar Committee, and Rangarajan Committee have provided methodologies and estimates.
• Tendulkar Committee (2009): This committee shifted from the calorie norm to a consumption basket that included expenditure on education and health, besides food. The 2011-2012 figures discussed in the question are based on the methodology largely informed by the Tendulkar Committee recommendations, using National Sample Survey (NSS) data.
• Rangarajan Committee (2014): This committee revised the poverty line upwards compared to the Tendulkar estimates, suggesting Rs. 972 for rural areas and Rs. 1407 for urban areas in 2011-2012. However, the figures commonly cited and often referenced in examinations for 2011-2012 align with the Tendulkar methodology's outputs.
• Data Source: Poverty estimates are typically based on data from the Household Consumer Expenditure Survey conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO).

Understanding these different committees and their approaches helps clarify why different poverty line figures might be encountered for the same period, although specific questions usually refer to figures adopted based on prominent recommendations like the Tendulkar committee's.