Abstract

This study examines poverty in India through a multidimensional lens, recognizing that deprivation extends beyond income. Focusing on Bihar and Uttar Pradesh—two of the nation’s most economically disadvantaged states—it explores how health, education, and living standards intersect to shape overall well-being. The research assesses changes in multidimensional poverty between 2015–16 and 2019–21 using nationally representative data. Employing the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) framework developed by the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative and the United Nations Development Programme (OPHI, 2020; UNDP, 2021), the analysis draws on secondary data from NFHS-4 and NFHS-5. It measures deprivation across indicators such as nutrition, education, health, sanitation, electricity, clean cooking fuel, household assets, and financial inclusion. Findings reveal that India’s MPI fell from 24.85% to 11.28%, with Bihar’s rate declining from 51.89% to 33.76% and Uttar Pradesh’s from 37.68% to 22.93%. Despite progress, persistent inequalities—particularly in health and living conditions—highlight uneven development. The study emphasizes inclusive, context-sensitive policies to ensure equitable poverty reduction.