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➣ A common method used to measure poverty is based on income or consumption levels.
➣ A person is considered poor if his or her income or consumption level falls below a given "minimum level" necessary to fulfill basic needs.
➣ The poverty line may vary with time and place.
➣ Each country uses an imaginary line that is considered appropriate for its existing level of development and its accepted minimum social norms.
➣ While determining the poverty line in India, a minimum level of food requirement, clothing, footwear, fuel and light, educational and medical requirement, etc., are determined for subsistence.
➣ The calorie needs vary depending on age, sex, and the type of work that a person does.
➣ The accepted average calorie requirement in India is 2400 calories per day in rural areas and 2100 calories per person per day in urban areas.
➣ The poverty line is estimated periodically (every five years) by conducting sample surveys. These surveys are carried out by the National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO).
Written on Jan. 19, 2026, 4:33 p.m.