Examining the Gradual Decline in Socioeconomic Deprivation Inequality in India: A Trend Analysis Using the Latest Three Rounds of the NFHS Data

Nizamuddin Khan, Population Council Consulting
Mohd Al Uzair, Independent consultant
Niranjan Saggurti, Population Council

India's sociocultural diversity is an embroidery woven from a multitude of threads, echoing its rich history and deep-rooted traditions. This diversity is not merely geographical but ethnicities, languages, religions, and cultural practices exist in the country. We aimed to assess the socioeconomic deprivation status of households in India using the latest three rounds of National Family Health Survey (NFHS) dataset, a nationally representative and employs a multistage sampling framework, typically using census tracts as primary sampling units. Our methodology was based on a composite index approach, integrating guidance from the UNDP's MPI Statistical Programmes. The index was constructed using eight key indicators across two dimensions: education and living standards. These indicators were selected based on their relevance to the Indian context and their ability to capture the multifaceted nature of deprivation. Analysing the socioeconomic deprivation Inequality across different socioeconomic strata – Ethnicity, religion, place of residence, and geographical regions in country over the time, we found that the inequality reduced over time but exist significantly in among different ethnic groups including the different part of geography in the country. The study underscores the urgent need to target segmented approach interventions and policies aimed at addressing socioeconomic inequalities to in India.

Keywords: Inequality, Disadvantage and Discrimination

See extended abstract.