Poverty and Social Monitoring Survey, Analysis of Data and Preparation of report in Uttarakhand

Aims and Objective: The objective of this survey was to prepare current state and district-wise poverty estimates and social monitoring indicators to achieve the sustainable development goals. The survey covered various social issues, such as health, education, and women and child welfare, providing a comprehensive analysis that can guide the state in addressing neglected areas and attaining fresh estimates.

Methodology: A primary survey was conducted across all 13 districts of Uttarakhand, encompassing both rural and urban areas. The sample size included 6,152 households, with 4,312 from rural areas and 1,840 from urban areas, reflecting the rural-urban population distribution based on the 2011 census. A stratified multi-stage sampling design was employed to ensure the representativeness of the sample.

Key Findings:

1. Demographic Profile:
   • Community Distribution: General caste is the predominant community (43%).
   • Income Sources: Major income sources are self-employment in agriculture and casual labor in non-agriculture.
   • Literacy and Employment: Illiteracy rate is 16% for those aged 7 and above. About 48% of the population aged 15 and above are employed, 6% are unemployed, and the remaining 46% are out of the labor force.
   • Land Ownership: Approximately 58% of households are landless.
2. Education:
   • Preschool Attendance: Less than one-third of children aged 3-6 attend preschool, with 48% going to Anganwadi Centers (AWCs).
   • Rural-Urban Disparity: Significant disparities in education expenditure between rural and urban areas.
   • Hill vs. Plain Areas: Higher enrollment in AWCs in hill areas (61%) compared to plain areas (38%).
3. Health:
   • Healthcare Preference: Households prefer private healthcare facilities for short-term illnesses and hospitalizations, except for Scheduled Tribe households, who prefer government hospitals.
4. Household Consumer Expenditure and Poverty Estimates:
   • Expenditure Gap: Significant differences in monthly per capita consumer expenditure (MPCE) between rural and urban, hills and plains, and across social groups and districts.
   • Poverty Estimates: The proportion of people living below the poverty line is around 9.4% (10.9% in rural areas and 7% in urban areas). Poverty is higher in hilly districts compared to plains.

Recommendations:

• Strengthening Poverty Alleviation Programs: Enhance the implementation of programs aimed at reducing poverty, particularly in hilly districts.
• Employment Initiatives: Develop policies to create regular employment opportunities and improve productivity in agriculture and non-farm activities in hilly areas.
• Balanced Development: Address the disadvantages and unbalanced development faced by hilly districts through suitable policy initiatives.

Impact:

This survey provides essential data for policymakers to design targeted interventions that address the specific needs of different regions within Uttarakhand. By focusing on the identified gaps and issues, the state can work towards achieving sustainable development goals and improving the overall socio-economic conditions of its population.