In a recent report released by the United Nations, India has showcased significant progress in its Human Development Index (HDI), marking a positive shift in its global ranking. The report, titled “Breaking the Gridlock: Reimagining Cooperation in a Polarized World,” unveils India’s climb in the HDI rankings, placing the nation at 134 out of 193 countries.
The HDI value for India surged from 0.633 to 0.644 in 2022, signifying a noteworthy improvement in the country’s overall well-being and quality of life. This elevation has propelled India into the category of medium human development, reinstating its commitment to advancing societal welfare, as in previous years.
The Human Development Index, a composite index computed based on parameters such as life expectancy, mean years of schooling, and Gross National Income (GNI) per capita, offers a holistic perspective on a nation’s development, transcending mere economic indicators like GDP. The report highlights India’s commendable strides across all HDI indicators in 2022. Life expectancy increased to 67.7 years, expected years of schooling reached 12.6, mean years of schooling climbed to 6.57, and GNI per capita witnessed a rise from $6,542 to $6,951.
Moreover, India has demonstrated significant progress in reducing gender inequality, with a GII value of 0.437, surpassing both global and South Asian averages. The nation’s performance in reproductive health, as well as its adolescent birth rate, reflects commendable advancements.
Despite these achievements, India remains behind its South Asian counterparts such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka, as well as China, in the HDI rankings. However, the report emphasizes that India’s improvement underscores the importance of prioritizing social infrastructure investment over a singular focus on GDP growth.
The concept of human development, pioneered by economists Mahbub al Haq and Amartya Sen, has become an influential barometer of progress, focusing on enhancing people’s choices and well-being beyond economic metrics. UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner reiterated the significance of this approach, emphasizing that true development encompasses factors such as education, health, and income.
Reflecting on India’s progress, Caitlin Wiesen, the resident representative of United Nations Development Programme (India), expressed optimism about the nation’s future trajectory, particularly with a renewed emphasis on women-led development.
As the world grapples with rising inequality and geopolitical challenges, India’s advancement in the HDI serves as a beacon of hope, signaling the potential for a brighter and more equitable future for all citizens. However, it also underscores the imperative for continued efforts to address systemic disparities and foster inclusive growth.
Sources By Agencies