Srinagar, Nov. 2 -- India's reported decline in extreme poverty marks a milestone in its development journey. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's reference to the World Bank report reminds us that development must be measured by its impact on ordinary lives. The reduction reflects improvements in household incomes, essential services, financial inclusion, food security and social protection. Welfare programmes, direct benefit transfers, rural employment initiatives, housing, sanitation and electricity have improved living conditions for millions. Digital banking has made it easier to transfer benefits to households. However, celebrating progress must not overshadow the challenges that remain. Poverty is not simply the absence of income; it als...