INDIAN EXPRESS DATED 31st OCT 2026.

Summary of Important News Items Editorials-508

INDIAN EXPRESS DATED 31st OCT 2026.

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1. World Bank Reports Sharp Decline in Extreme Poverty in India

The World Bank reported that India's extreme poverty rate declined to 2.6% in 2023, compared with 5.3% in 2022–23 and 27.1% in 2011, using the international poverty threshold of $3 per person per day at 2021 purchasing power parity. Its Poverty & Equity Brief recognised India's substantial progress in reducing both monetary and multidimensional deprivation. However, the report highlighted continuing structural challenges. Approximately 57% of India's poor are concentrated in a geographical belt extending from Uttar Pradesh to West Bengal. Wage inequality remains significant, with the highest-paid 10% of workers earning around thirteen times the median earnings of the lowest-paid 10%. Rural poverty also remains higher than urban poverty. Economic logic: Poverty reduction depends increasingly on productive employment, skill development and higher real earnings rather than income growth alone. Government's stand: The Finance Minister welcomed the findings as evidence of sustained policy efforts. Gist: India's achievement is substantial, but inclusive growth requires quality employment and reduction of regional disparities.

ie-delhi-31-10-2026.pdf

2. Delhi-NCR Air Pollution: Construction Ban and Work-from-Home Measures