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Economics · Unit 2

Economics exam question: How is the poverty line constructed

The question (15 marks)

How is the poverty line constructed in India? Compare the Tendulkar and Rangarajan estimates for 2011-12 and explain why they differ. What follows for a lawyer from the fact that they differ? (15 marks)

Standing MU question on Module 2 head 3. Built from chapter 08 and worked example 9.

Plan your answer on paper before you look at the authorities — issue first, then the rule, then apply it to these facts.

It tests Unit 2 · Indian Economy of Economics.

Authorities you will need

  • NITI Aayog press note on poverty estimates for 2011-12 (Tendulkar methodology)
  • Press Information Bureau release on the report of the Rangarajan Expert Group, submitted 30 June 2014
  • Economic Survey on current poverty measures, including the World Bank International Poverty Line and the Multidimensional Poverty Index

How an answer is marked

A full-marks answer names the issue in one line, states the rule with its section, cites the authority, applies it to these facts and concludes — in that order. The app's model answer for this question is written in exactly that shape, with a checklist to mark your own attempt against.