Amid global developmental slowdown and widening inequality, India has shown progress on the Human Development Index (HDI), reflecting improvements in health, education, and income despite post-pandemic challenges.

India’s Progress on Human Development Index (HDI)

• Global Position: India ranks 130 out of 193 countries in the 2025 Human Development Report (up from 133 in 2022).
• Progress: HDI value increased to 0.685 in 2023 from 0.676 in 2022.
• Overall Recovery: Indicates strong post-pandemic recovery across HDI parameters:
  • Life Expectancy: 72 years in 2023 (up from 58.6 in 1990).
  • Expected years of Schooling: 13 years in 2023 (up from 8.2 in 1990).
  • Gross National Income per Capita: $9046.76 in 2023 (up from $2167.22 in 1990).
• Government Initiatives Acknowledged: Programs like MGNREGA, Right to Education Act, and National Rural Health Mission credited for improvements.

Challenges that need to be Tackled

• Widening Gaps: Rising inequality—especially income and gender disparities.
• HDI Loss: HDI loss due to inequality: 30.7%—one of the highest in the region.
• Labour Force Data: Female labour force participation rose to 41.7% (2023–24), but:
  • Needs a stronger ecosystem for job retention.
  • Lag in political representation for women—pending implementation of 1/3 reservation in legislatures.
• Educational Disparity: Educational inequality persists for underprivileged children.

Focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Theme of the 2025 HDR: “A Matter of Choice: People and Possibilities in the Age of AI.”
• AI Talent Retention Surge: India retained 20% of global AI researchers in 2023, up from near zero in 2019.
• Potential of AI: Improve agriculture, healthcare, education, and public service delivery.
• Caution Urged: Need for strong policy and safeguards to prevent AI from exacerbating inequalities.

Solutions Ahead

• Target Inequality: Prioritise policies to reduce income and gender disparities, especially in education and employment.
• Empower Women: Ensure workplace support systems and swiftly implement the 1/3 legislative reservation.
• Strengthen Education Access: Focus on bridging gaps for underprivileged children with quality schooling and digital tools.
• Leverage AI Equitably: Use AI in sectors like health, education, and agriculture, with strong ethical safeguards.
• Sustain Human Development Gains: Expand inclusive programmes like MGNREGA and RTE to secure long-term progress.

Conclusion

While India’s HDI rise is commendable, addressing gender disparities, income inequality, and leveraging AI responsibly with proper policies is crucial to ensure inclusive and sustainable human development.

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