Shashi Tharoor challenges PM Modi’s data on poverty eradication

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s claims on poverty eradication, stating that no data provided by the PM has received international recognition. Tharoor asserted that during the Congress-led UPA government’s tenure from 2004 to 2014, over 140 million people were lifted out of poverty, a fact acknowledged by international institutions.

Tharoor’s remarks came during an interaction with news agency ANI, where he expressed readiness for a debate to support the Congress party’s data on poverty alleviation. He questioned PM Modi’s assertions on poverty reduction and urged the public to assess if their living conditions had truly improved under the current government.

In contrast, PM Modi has been highlighting his government’s achievements in lifting 25 crore Indians out of poverty during his campaign rallies for the ongoing Lok Sabha Election 2024. He has also emphasized other accomplishments such as India’s GDP growth, infrastructure development, and the country’s extensive Covid vaccination campaign.

A recent NITI Aayog report in January 2024 revealed that 24.82 crore individuals emerged from multidimensional poverty over the past nine years. States like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh witnessed significant declines in poverty levels, with Uttar Pradesh leading in poverty reduction numbers. The report indicated a substantial drop in multidimensional poverty in India from 29.17% in 2013-14 to 11.28% in 2022-23, showcasing a remarkable 17.89 percentage point decrease.

Tharoor’s challenge to PM Modi’s poverty eradication claims adds a new dimension to the political discourse ahead of the elections, with contrasting narratives on the country’s progress in addressing poverty. The debate between the two leaders could offer voters valuable insights into the efficacy of government policies in tackling poverty and improving the lives of millions of Indians.