THE human development index, a UN measure of life expectancy, income and education has released its report for 2014. India ranks 135 on a list of 186 countries which is a tad better than last year. It is pointless arguing and carping about the way the index is computed. What is more useful is to take a hard look at the new parameters for meaningful development set out by the HDI. India is now trying to cope with a whole host of problems plaguing it such as employment generation, lack of food security and the impediments to the exercise of the right to education. But the progress has been made in a faltering manner. The HDI report is a pointer to comprehensive planning and development and puts stress on structural vulnerabilities due to historical and geographical factors. Take institutional health which is expected to deliver public good and protection to people from disease. But, the purpose is vitiated by life cycle vulnerabilities—the first 1000 days after birth, transition from education to work and from work to retirement. Equality of opportunity is sapped by social, gender and economic forces. The 2014 report suggests remedies for gender inequality.
It is regrettable that India is so low in the human index. No wonder, here female foeticide is not uncommon and women’s protection is at stake. Law enforcement to safeguard women’s interests is singularly lax. The government is primarily responsible for regulating institutions and delivery systems. It has to guarantee health, education and security. The 2014 report emphasizes that there is need for urgent discussion to generate action in India to blot out its shame.