India Among Top Nations In Income Equality: World Bank Report

India has secured its position among the most equal societies globally, according to the latest data from the World Bank. With a Gini Index score of 25.5, India ranks fourth in income equality, trailing only the Slovak Republic, Slovenia, and Belarus.

This notable ranking places India ahead of several advanced economies, including China (35.7), the United States (41.8), and all member countries of the G7 and G20. The Gini Index is a widely recognized measure of income distribution, where a lower score indicates greater equality. India’s latest figure reflects a significant improvement from its 2011 score of 28.8.

Policy Reforms Drive Equitable Growth

A statement from the Social Welfare department attributed this success to ongoing policy initiatives aimed at inclusive development. "It reflects how India's economic progress is being shared more evenly across its population. Behind this success is a consistent policy focus on reducing poverty, expanding financial access, and delivering welfare support directly to those who need it most," the release said.

Government-led efforts targeting poverty alleviation and financial inclusion have played a vital role in narrowing income disparities. According to the World Bank’s Spring 2025 Poverty and Equity Brief, India lifted approximately 171 million people out of extreme poverty between 2011 and 2023. During the same period, the poverty rate dropped dramatically from 16.2 per cent to 2.3 per cent, based on the international benchmark of $2.15 per day.

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Welfare And Financial Access Empower Millions

A suite of welfare schemes has contributed to this transformation. Over 55 crore Jan Dhan bank accounts have been opened, expanding access to formal banking. Aadhaar, India’s digital identity platform, now includes over 142 crore individuals, enhancing transparency and efficiency in welfare distribution. Direct Benefit Transfers (DBTs), enabled by Aadhaar, have saved the exchequer Rs 3.48 lakh crore as of March 2023.

In healthcare, the Ayushman Bharat scheme has issued over 41 crore health cards, offering families insurance coverage up to Rs 5 lakh. Economic empowerment initiatives such as the Stand-Up India scheme and PM Vishwakarma Yojana continue to support marginalized communities and artisans. Meanwhile, the PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) has ensured food security for more than 80 crore citizens.

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