India’s Global Performance 2024: Examining Rankings in Key Global Indices

As 2024 draws to a close, the global community reflects on a year riddled with conflicts, economic hardships, and climatic challenges. Amidst these pressing issues, India’s global performance in 2024 across various indices provides a nuanced perspective on the country’s progress and persistent struggles. From poverty alleviation to climate change efforts, here’s a comprehensive analysis of how India fared globally.

Global Multidimensional Poverty Index

India’s journey in combating poverty has been commendable, yet challenges remain. The 2024 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index reveals that poverty in India decreased significantly, from 55.1% in 2005-06 to 16.4% in 2019-21. Despite this, with 234 million citizens still living in poverty, India leads globally in absolute numbers. This stark figure highlights the need for sustained policies addressing the structural roots of poverty.

Globally, children bear the brunt of poverty, with 27.9% of them affected compared to 13.5% of adults. For India, eradicating poverty demands a focus on education, healthcare, and economic inclusion, especially for its younger population.

Global Hunger Index

India’s rank of 105th in the Global Hunger Index categorizes it in the “serious” hunger level, underscoring significant undernourishment among 13.7% of the population. Additionally, 35.5% of children under five are stunted, and 18.7% are wasted. These figures paint a sobering picture of malnutrition, urging a reevaluation of food security initiatives.

Although neighbouring countries like Nepal and Bangladesh have moved to the “moderate” category, India’s strides in reducing hunger will require a multi-pronged approach involving better agricultural policies, nutrition awareness, and equitable food distribution.

World Press Freedom Index

In 2024, India ranked 159th out of 180 countries in the World Press Freedom Index. Although an improvement from the previous year, the marginal progress stems more from the decline of others than a genuine enhancement in press freedom. Media outlets in India face growing challenges under political influence, emphasizing the need for safeguarding journalistic independence.

Global Gender Gap Index

India’s position in the Global Gender Gap Index fell to 129th in 2024. While advancements in education and political empowerment are noteworthy, gender disparities in economic participation and health persist. Ranking 65th in political empowerment reflects India’s success in promoting female leadership, but bridging the overall gender gap requires transformative societal shifts and policy interventions.

World Happiness Index

Ranked 126th on the World Happiness Index, India remains among the less happy nations globally. Factors such as economic inequality, health disparities, and limited freedom significantly influence this ranking. Notably, older Indians report higher life satisfaction, suggesting cultural resilience among senior citizens. To elevate happiness levels, policymakers must address mental health, environmental quality, and economic equity.

Human Development Index 2024 (HDI)

India’s HDI value rose to 0.644, marking a steady improvement over decades. Ranking 134th globally, the country remains in the medium human development category. Significant progress in education, life expectancy, and income levels reflects India’s potential to leap forward. Yet, consistent efforts are required to sustain this trajectory, particularly in areas like healthcare and rural development.

Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI)

India’s rank of 10th on the CCPI underscores its leadership in renewable energy and climate action. Despite slipping two places, the country has implemented large-scale solar projects and ambitious climate policies. Among G20 nations, India remains a high performer, showcasing its commitment to combating climate change while balancing developmental priorities.

Global Peace Index

India’s rank of 116th in the Global Peace Index signals improved peacefulness, with a 1.6% increase compared to the previous year. This marks India’s highest level of peace since the index’s inception, demonstrating strides in conflict resolution and societal harmony.

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