International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is an annual observance that raises awareness and encourages global collaborative efforts to fight poverty. Recognised by the United Nations, it promotes knowledge sharing and engaging in direct action to address socioeconomic inequality, exclusion, and disadvantage. This observance emphasizes the vital voices and contributions of those experiencing poverty and the importance of listening to and empowering affected communities.

Established in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly, the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty was inspired by the first Rally of the Call of the People, which took place in Paris in 1987. For India, a country with a wide variety of people, this observance is essential in addressing the roots of socioeconomic disparities. India has implemented various programs such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), and the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) aimed at providing employment, housing, and sustainable livelihoods. Initiatives like Make in India, Digital India, and Start-up India are designed to boost economic growth, create jobs, and uplift marginalized communities.

India observes this day through various initiatives, awareness campaigns, and events, many organized by non-governmental organisations (NGOs), community groups, and public institutions. Educational sessions, accessible workshops, discussions, and fundraising activities are held nationwide to encourage conversation, understanding, and engagement within the community. International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is observed on the 17th of October each year, highlighting the importance of unity and collective action in the ongoing pursuit of global poverty reduction and social equity.

Facts about this day and poverty

• According to the World Bank, the pandemic is estimated to have pushed an additional 88 million to 115 million people into extreme poverty in 2020, reversing years of progress.
• 1.1 billion people lack access to clean water. 2.6 billion lack access to basic sanitation.
• It has been estimated that the cost to end extreme poverty worldwide would be about $175 billion per year for 20 years, less than 1% of the combined income of the richest countries in the world.
• As per a report by Oxfam, the wealth of the top 1% of India’s population increased by over 39% in 2020, while the bottom 50% saw an increase of just 3%.
• As of 2021, India is home to 22% of the world's poor, according to a UN report.

In the News and Trending in India for International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

Top things to do in India for this observance

• Donate to local shelters or certified charities like K.I.D.S (Kids in Distressed Situations).
• Contribute to trusted NGOs working to eradicate poverty in India by donating money, resources, or your time. Research and select organizations that have a proven track record of effectively addressing poverty-related issues.
• Explore and support sustainable development practices that aim to alleviate poverty. This could involve encouraging eco-friendly initiatives, conservation of resources, or advocating for fair trade practices.