"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
18 Mar 2024
The United Nations Human Development Index (HDI) report has hailed India's remarkable progress in terms of life expectancy and per capita income. The report highlights significant improvements in various indicators of human development, positioning India on a positive trajectory.
Life Expectancy Soars:
According to the HDI report, India's average life expectancy witnessed a remarkable increase from 62.7 years in 2021 to 67.7 years in 2022. This upward trend signifies a positive change of 9.1 years since 1990. The rise in life expectancy reflects the nation's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.
Per Capita Income Surges:
India's gross national income (GNI) per capita has experienced a notable growth of 6.3% in just 12 months, reaching $6951. This increase in per capita income signifies a positive change of approximately 287% since 1990. The rise in income levels showcases the economic progress and development witnessed by the country.
Education and Gender Equality:
The HDI report also highlights significant advancements in education and gender equality. India demonstrated progress in reducing gender inequality, achieving a Gender Inequality Index (GII) of 0.437, surpassing the global average. The report emphasizes the importance of women-led development and the need for continued efforts to ensure a more equitable future for all.
Education Access:
The report indicates an increase in expected years of schooling, with each individual now having an average of 12.6 years of education. This improvement in education access is crucial for human development and empowering individuals to lead productive lives.
Medium Human Development Category:
India's HDI score for 2022 stands at 0.644, placing it in the 'medium human development' category. This score signifies progress after a drop in the previous year and a relatively stagnant trend in previous years. India's consistent efforts to improve human development have resulted in significant positive changes over time.
Global Comparison:
While India's progress is commendable, the global HDI values have experienced a decline for the second consecutive year. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated inequalities between rich and poor countries, hindering human development progress worldwide. The report highlights the urgent need for global cooperation to address these challenges and achieve sustainable development goals.
While there is still room for improvement, India's achievements demonstrate the potential for continued growth and development. The report serves as a call to action for governments, organizations, and individuals to work together towards a more equitable and prosperous future for all.