India has the largest number of people living in poverty, though poverty rate (percentage of population) is highest in some African countries.
---
Global Snapshot
India has about 234 million people classified as multidimensionally poor—the highest absolute number worldwide .
Other countries with high poor populations include Pakistan (~93 million), Ethiopia (86 M), Nigeria (74 M), and DR Congo (66 M) .
Over 1.1 billion people live in acute (multidimensional) poverty globally, with nearly 40% in conflict zones .
---
Poverty Rates vs. Total Numbers
In terms of poverty rate, several countries exhibit extremely high percentages:
Equatorial Guinea: ~76.8%
South Sudan: ~76.4%
Madagascar: ~70.7%
DR Congo: ~63.9%
Burundi: ~64.9% .
These rates reflect that despite smaller populations, the majority live under national poverty thresholds.
---
❓ Why India Has the Most Poor People
Population size: With over 1.4 billion people, even a moderate poverty rate yields the largest poor population.
Historical, social, and economic factors: Despite progress, parts of rural India still lack access to healthcare, education, sanitation, and stable income.
Recent improvements: Extreme poverty in India fell dramatically—from ~344 M (27.1% of population) in 2011–12 to ~75 M (5.3%) in 2022–23 .
---
✅ Ways to Improve the Situation
1. Deepen Economic Growth in Rural Areas
Invest in agriculture, rural industries, and adoption of modern technologies.
2. Universal Quality Education & Healthcare
Ensure accessible schools, skill training, and primary healthcare, especially in underserved regions.
3. Social Protection Programs
Strengthen welfare measures, subsidies, and social safety nets.
4. Infrastructure Development
Expand roads, electricity, water, and digital connectivity to integrate remote communities.
5. Empower Women & Marginalized Groups
Promote gender equality and uplift disadvantaged groups through targeted initiatives.
---
📈 Summary
Most poor people by number: India (~234 M); followed by Pakistan (~93 M), Ethiopia (~86 M), Nigeria (~74 M), DR Congo (~66 M) .
Highest poverty rates (percentage of population): countries like Equatorial Guinea, South Sudan, Madagascar, Burundi, and DR Congo, where over 60% live in poverty .
While India leads in absolute numbers, many African nations face even more severe poverty as a share of their population.
