Human Development Index Creation
The Human Development Index (HDI) is a significant measure developed to look beyond economic growth and focus on people-centric development. It evaluates a nation's progress based on key dimensions of human well-being: a long and healthy life, knowledge acquisition, and a decent standard of living.
While the Nobel laureate economist Amartya Sen provided foundational economic and philosophical ideas related to human capabilities and freedoms, the practical conceptualization and creation of the HDI are primarily credited to Pakistani economist Mahbub ul Haq. He collaborated closely with Amartya Sen and others, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), to bring the index to life starting in 1990. Mahbub ul Haq envisioned the HDI as a tool to shift the focus of development economics from national income accounting to people's well-being.
Therefore, Mahbub ul Haq is recognized as the key architect of the HDI alongside Amartya Sen's theoretical contributions.
Key Figures in HDI Development
- Amartya Sen: Provided the theoretical framework based on capabilities and freedoms.
- Mahbub ul Haq: Conceptualized and operationalized the HDI, leading its development for the UNDP.
Important Questions from Human Development Indices and Concepts
- By 2025, India's workforce is expected to account for over _______ % of the global skilled workforce.
- Human development also involves freedom, security and dignity in life. The first Human Development Report was published in which year?
- Which of the following is considered a major challenge to human development in India?
- How is a long and healthy life measured in HDI?
- Human development emphasises enlarging people's choices by improving health, education, and income. Which global organisation publishes the Human Development Index (HDI)?
