Deputy Chairman of Planning Commission of India, Shri Montek Singh Ahluwalia thinks , one can survive in an Indian city for Rs.578 ( approx.$ 12.5 ) per month.
That is Rs.20 per day ( $ 0.35 ).
If you do, you are not “ poor “ – as defined by Planning Commission !
And don’t let it worry you that United Nations computes International Poverty Line at $ 1.25 per day.
Now, members of National Advisory Council, Aruna Roy , Jean Dreze and Harsh Mander were a bit skeptical.
So they went to the market and managed to buy with Rs.20 :
- one small aluminum spoon
- 25 grams of dal
- Half a slice of bread
- Some washing powder
- A torn piece of cloth
Then presented the packet ( obviously without gift wrapping ! ) to Montek Singh – who was not amused !
All the while, TV Channels were busy reporting on Lokpal Bill.
May be Aruna Roy and her colleagues should have undertaken a 10 am to 6 pm “ Survival Event “ at Jantar Mantar – solely depending on their purchase !
With regards
HEMEN PAREKH
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