India Rises to 130th Rank on Human Development Index Out of 193 Countries

India has recorded a significant improvement in the Human Development Index (HDI) 2024, climbing to position 130 among 193 countries, as indicated in the most recent United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) report. This represents a consistent increase from last year’s position of 132, a reflection of improved healthcare, education, and incomes.

What is the Human Development Index (HDI)?

The HDI is a composite index that assesses a country’s average achievement in three basic dimensions of human development:

• Health: Life expectancy at birth

• Education: Mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling

• Standard of Living: Gross National Income (GNI) per capita (PPP)

This index, developed by UNDP, provides a more holistic view of development beyond just economic growth.

Findings of Human Development Index (HDI)

1. Global HDI Trends

• Switzerland retained the top position with the highest HDI value.

• The global average HDI value has returned to pre-COVID levels after a dip during 2020–2021.

• High-income countries recovered faster from pandemic setbacks compared to low- and middle-income nations.

• The “Global North-South divide” in human development widened.

2. India’s Performance

• Rank: 130 out of 193 countries (an improvement from 132 in 2023)

• HDI Value: Increased to 0.644

• Category: Remains in the Medium Human Development group

• Life Expectancy: Rose to 72.0 years

• Mean Years of Schooling: 6.9 years

• Expected Years of Schooling: 13.1 years

• GNI per capita (PPP): $9,047

3. South Asia Snapshot

• India ranks higher than Bangladesh (133), Nepal (143), and Pakistan (164)

• Sri Lanka (78) and Bhutan (125) rank above India

• Afghanistan remains one of the lowest-ranked in the region

4. Inequality and Gender Development

• Global Gender Inequality Index (GII) shows women lag in education, income, and political participation.

• India’s GII rank improved from 108 to 102

• Gender-based disparities and labor participation remain areas of concern globally and in India.

5. Emerging Concerns

• Climate change, conflict, and economic shocks are key threats to human development progress.

• More than 90 countries face stagnation or decline in HDI over the last five years.

• Rising inequality within countries, despite overall HDI progress,s is a worrying trend

Why India’s Rank Improved: Major Drivers

1. Healthcare Initiatives

India’s life expectancy rose to 72 years, supported by schemes like:

• Ayushman Bharat – PM-JAY: Largest health assurance scheme globally.

• Mission Indradhanush: Widening vaccination coverage.

• Nutrition Programs like Poshan Abhiyan addressing malnutrition.

2. Educational Advancements

• Increase in school enrolment and NEP 2020 implementation boosted learning outcomes.

• Government investment in Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, DIKSHA, and PM SHRI Schools is paying off.

3. Economic Growth & Welfare Schemes

• Rising GNI per capita due to digital growth, service sector expansion, and direct benefit transfers.

• Schemes like PM Jan Dhan Yojana, MGNREGA, and Startup India enhanced economic inclusivity.

HDI Comparison with Neighbouring Countries (2024)

India now ranks ahead of Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan, but lags behind China and Sri Lanka.

Gender Inequality and Development: Progress & Gaps

While India’s Gender Inequality Index (GII) rank improved from 108 to 102, challenges remain:

• Female labor force participation remains below 25%.

• Despite more women in education and local governance, representation in Parliament and corporate leadership is still limited.

• The recently passed Women’s Reservation Bill aims to strengthen political empowerment.

About Human Development Index

• The Human Development Index (HDI) assesses key aspects of human development beyond just income.
• It measures overall well-being, considering comprehensive criteria that account for more than financial status.
• The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) publishes the HDI.

Human Development Approach

• The index stems from the human development approach created by Mahbub ul Haq and is further influenced by Amartya Sen’s work on human capabilities.
• The HDI is framed around the ability of individuals to achieve desirable life outcomes.

Indicators

• Health Indicator: Life expectancy at birth is used to measure the health dimension of HDI.
• Education Indicators: The education dimension is assessed using two indicators:
  • Expected years of schooling and
  • Mean years of schooling.
• Living Standard Indicator: Gross National Income per capita, adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP), evaluates the living standards.

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