Q13.Hunger and Poverty are the biggest challenges for good governance in India still today. Evaluate how far successive governments have progressed in dealing with these humongous problems. Suggest measures for improvement.

Hunger and poverty remain formidable obstacles to good governance in India, undermining human development and social stability.

Successes

• Successive governments have launched schemes like NFSA, MGNREGA, PDS, ICDS, and PM-KISAN.
• These efforts have significantly reduced poverty rates and improved food security indicators nationwide.

Persistent Challenges and Gaps

• However, issues like leakages, corruption, targeting errors, and last-mile delivery persist.
• Structural inequalities, climate change impacts, and insufficient job creation further exacerbate these problems.

• Hunger and poverty foster corruption, increase social unrest, and hinder human development.
• They erode public trust in institutions, directly challenging good governance principles.

• Strengthening PDS, promoting nutritional security, and enhancing skill development are crucial.
• Improved implementation through technology, accountability, and scheme convergence is vital.
• A multi-dimensional approach with robust monitoring and citizen participation is essential for effective governance.

Addressing these challenges requires sustained political will, innovative solutions, and a holistic strategy for inclusive growth.