DEVELOPMENT

Development refers to the progress or improvement in the quality of life, encompassing economic, social, and environmental aspects. People have different notions of development because their aspirations and life situations vary. For example, a landless rural laborer may prioritize more work days, while a prosperous farmer may seek higher crop prices.

Per capita income is calculated by dividing the total income of a country by its population. It's used to compare countries because it provides an average income level, indicating the economic well-being of citizens. However, it doesn't account for income distribution or non-material aspects of life.

Using income as the sole criterion ignores non-material aspects like freedom, security, and equality. It also doesn't reflect income distribution, meaning a country with high average income might still have significant poverty. For instance, Kerala has lower per capita income than Haryana but better health and education indicators.

Public facilities like schools and hospitals are crucial for development as they ensure access to essential services for all citizens. They contribute to better health, education, and overall quality of life. For example, Kerala's high literacy rate is attributed to its robust public education system.

HDI is a composite index measuring a country's development based on life expectancy, education, and per capita income. It provides a broader view of development than income alone. For example, Sri Lanka ranks higher than India in HDI despite having lower per capita income, due to better health and education.

Sustainability ensures that current development does not deplete resources for future generations. Overuse of resources like groundwater can lead to scarcity, affecting long-term development. For instance, Punjab's overuse of groundwater for agriculture threatens its future water availability.

A rural woman may seek gender equality and education opportunities, while an urban unemployed youth prioritizes job security and income. Their differing contexts shape their goals, highlighting how development is subjective and varies by individual circumstances.

IMR measures the number of infant deaths per 1,000 live births, reflecting healthcare quality and living conditions. Lower IMR indicates better health infrastructure and nutrition. For example, Kerala's low IMR contrasts with higher rates in states with poorer healthcare.

Literacy rate indicates education levels, which are vital for skilled labor and economic growth. Higher literacy correlates with better employment opportunities and societal progress. For instance, Bihar's low literacy rate hampers its development compared to Kerala.

Renewable resources, like solar energy, can be replenished naturally, while non-renewable resources, like crude oil, are finite. Overuse of non-renewable resources threatens sustainability. For example, global oil reserves may last only 50 years at current consumption rates.

Countries may prioritize health and education over economic growth, leading to better HDI despite lower income. For example, Nepal has lower income than India but better life expectancy due to effective public health policies.

Democracy allows citizens to voice their developmental needs, ensuring inclusive progress. It promotes equality and accountability, essential for sustainable development. For instance, democratic processes in India help address disparities in development goals.

Environmental degradation, like pollution, harms health and reduces quality of life, hindering development. It also depletes resources needed for future growth. For example, toxic waste dumping in Ivory Coast caused health crises, disrupting development.

Economic growth refers to increase in income or GDP, while development includes improvements in living standards, health, and education. Growth alone doesn't ensure development, as seen in countries with high GDP but poor social indicators.

Gender equality ensures equal opportunities for all, enhancing societal productivity and well-being. It leads to better education and health outcomes. For example, empowering women in Kerala contributed to its high development indicators.

A prosperous farmer may seek higher crop prices, access to cheap labor, and opportunities for children to settle abroad. These goals reflect their economic status and aspirations, differing from those of less affluent farmers.

NAR measures school attendance among children, indicating access to and quality of education. Higher NAR suggests better educational infrastructure. For example, Kerala's high NAR aligns with its strong public education system.

PPP adjusts income levels for cost of living differences, providing a more accurate comparison of economic well-being. It helps compare development across countries with varying prices. For instance, India's per capita income in PPP terms is higher than nominal figures.

Groundwater overuse depletes reserves, risking future water scarcity and agricultural collapse. It threatens long-term development, especially in agriculturally dependent regions like Punjab. Sustainable practices are needed to prevent this crisis.

The report includes life expectancy, education, and income data to assess development. It provides a holistic view beyond economic metrics. For example, it ranks countries like Sri Lanka higher due to better health and education despite lower income.

Collective provision, like public schools, ensures universal access to essentials, reducing inequalities. It is cost-effective and promotes inclusive growth. For instance, Kerala's public health system delivers better outcomes than private-centric models.

BMI measures nutritional status, reflecting health and living standards. Low BMI indicates undernourishment, a barrier to development. For example, high undernourishment rates in Madhya Pradesh highlight development challenges.

Conflicting goals, like industrial growth versus environmental protection, require balanced solutions. Addressing these conflicts ensures sustainable and inclusive development. For example, dam projects must consider both energy needs and displacement impacts.

Adivasis face displacement and loss of livelihoods due to development projects like dams. Their goals often conflict with industrial growth, highlighting the need for inclusive policies. Sustainable alternatives, like small check dams, can address their needs.

The World Bank uses per capita income to classify countries as high, middle, or low-income. This method focuses on economic metrics but overlooks social factors. For example, India is classified as a lower-middle-income country despite significant poverty.

The survey provides data on health, nutrition, and demographics, informing policy decisions. It highlights disparities, guiding targeted interventions. For example, it reveals undernourishment rates, helping address malnutrition in states like Bihar.