In India, inequality remains among the highest in the world.

SOURCE: World inequality report 2026. https://wir2026.wid.world/insight/executive-summary/

Inequality in India remains among the highest in the world and has shown little movement in recent years.

The top 10% of earners capture about 58% of national income, while the bottom 50% receive only 15%. Wealth inequality is even greater, with the richest 10% holding around 65% of total wealth and the top 1% about 40%. The income gap between the top 10% and the bottom 50% remained stable between 2014 and 2024. Average annual income per capita is around 6,200 euros (PPP), and average wealth stands at about 28,000 euros (PPP). Female labor participation remains very low at 15.7%, showing no improvement over the past decade. Overall, inequality in India remains deeply entrenched across income, wealth, and gender dimensions, highlighting persistent structural divides within the economy.

Just fyi (from 2023 I didn't find a recent map, I think Bangladesh has surpassed us)

What do y'all think govt should concentrate on esp amidst this current IRan USA war and upcoming huge wave of economic crisis? What can common people do?

I completely agree with this observation. Despite economic growth and technological progress, inequality in India continues to remain deeply rooted in society. The gap between the rich and the poor keeps widening, while many people still struggle for basic opportunities, quality education, healthcare, and dignity of life.

Gender inequality further worsens the situation, where women often face discrimination, unequal pay, social restrictions, and violence despite their contributions to society and the economy. Such structural inequalities not only divide the nation economically but also weaken social harmony and human development.

True progress cannot be measured only by GDP or urban development; it must also be reflected in fairness, equal opportunities, and justice for every section of society.

Very good topic Sanskruthi.

In times like these, the government should prioritise economic stability and the protection of ordinary citizens over political drama. Rising global tensions, such as the conflict between Iran and the USA, can significantly impact oil prices, inflation, job availability, and food costs in countries like India that rely heavily on imports.

The government should focus on the following aspects:

Controlling inflation and fuel prices as much as possible

Strengthening employment opportunities and supporting small businesses

Increasing investment in agriculture, healthcare, and public welfare

Reducing dependence on foreign oil and promoting renewable energy sources

Maintaining market stability through consistent economic policies

Ensuring that essentials like food, medicine, and transportation remain affordable

As for the general public, we also have responsibilities during these challenging times-----

- Avoid panic buying and unnecessary spending

- Save money and reduce debt whenever possible

- Support local businesses and products

- Stay informed while refraining from spreading fear or misinformation on social media

- Learn practical financial planning and emergency preparedness skills

Most importantly, remain united socially rather than letting politics, religion, or hatred divide us during difficult times

Economic crises test not only governments but also the patience, discipline, and humanity of ordinary people.

I'm so glad you get it☺️☺️ we need to be an United front. I'm not liking Vietnam and Bangladesh taking over us in many depts. Religious politics needs to be stopped. Considerable efforts have to be made if public trust is to be recovered... Many people don't understand difference between GDP and GDP per capita.