India has improved its rank in the United Nations Human Development Index (HDI) for 2023, moving up four places to 130th out of 193 countries. This information comes from a report released by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). India’s HDI score climbed from 0.644 in 2022 to 0.685 this year, thanks to better health, education, and income.
Even with this progress, India is still in the medium human development category and has the same score as Bangladesh. However, India’s life expectancy has increased to 72 years from 67.7 years last year, and people are now expected to go to school for 13 years, up from 12.6 years. The average amount of time spent in school also rose slightly.
In terms of income, India’s per capita Gross National Income (GNI) jumped from $6,951 to $9,047. Bangladesh, which has the same HDI score, has a longer life expectancy of 74.7 years but a lower per capita income of $8,498.
However, when looking at income inequality, India’s HDI drops significantly to 0.475, showing that not everyone benefits equally. Gender gaps are also an issue; women score 0.631 on the Gender Development Index (GDI), while men score 0.722, and India ranks 102nd on the Gender Inequality Index (GII) at 0.403.
India’s income ranking is seven places lower than its HDI ranking, pointing out that income still needs improvement compared to health and education. Overall global HDI progress has slowed down, which could lead to widening gaps between rich and poor countries.
The report mentions that while artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to help countries grow, there are concerns that it could increase inequality if not managed well. India plans to support AI research and startups and has already started using AI for things like farming help and subsidy access in local languages.
A survey linked to the report showed mixed feelings about AI. Half of the people surveyed worry about job loss due to automation, but many also see AI creating new opportunities. The UNDP emphasizes the importance of inclusive growth and teamwork, focusing on how AI can be a tool to enhance development.
Achim Steiner, the UNDP administrator, pointed out that while AI offers many new possibilities, the choices we make will shape our future.
Leave a Reply