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
Which of the following is not related to 'Empowerment of women'?
Which of the following is not a constituent of Human Development Index (HDI)?
The Statistical Indicator of Equitable distribution of Income is
Which of the following is not a dimension of Human Development Index?
Select the correct statement/s.
(a) India ranks 131 in United Nation's Human Development Index, 2020.
(b) Life expectancy of Indians at birth in 2019 was 72.6 years while Bangladesh had life expectancy of 69.7 years
(c) Switzerland ranks 1st in United Nation's Human Development Index, 2020.
