EXPLORING THE PSYCHOSOCIAL DIMENSIONS OF MULTIDIMENSIONAL POVERTY IN INDIA: AN EVALUATION OF SOCIAL PROTECTION POLICIES

This paper explores the complexities of multidimensional poverty in India by analyzing the interactions among various poverty dimensions and evaluating the impact of social protection policies on poverty alleviation. Utilizing the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) methodology, the study identifies the interconnections between different deprivations and their implications for effective policy-making. It argues that while income-based measures are essential, a multidimensional approach provides a more comprehensive understanding of poverty, enabling the design of targeted interventions. The research highlights significant challenges within India's social protection system, including targeting inefficiencies and infrastructural gaps, and assesses the potential of policy innovations such as cash transfers and Universal Basic Income (UBI). Additionally, the study underscores the importance of integrating social protection policies with high-quality infrastructure to achieve sustainable poverty reduction. Findings indicate that although existing social protection schemes have made considerable progress, there is a need for a more cohesive strategy that addresses both preventive and remedial aspects of poverty. The paper concludes by recommending areas for future research, including the incorporation of new data from the India Human Development Survey (IHDS) and the exploration of urban poverty dynamics, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of effective poverty alleviation strategies in India.