IIM Udaipur’s Centre for Development Policy and Management (CDPM) hosted a critical panel discussion focusing on intergenerational mobility and pathways out of poverty in India. The event took place on Monday, December 22, 2025 . It specifically examined whether India’s rapid economic growth has led to sustained upward mobility for its most disadvantaged citizens.
The discussion gathered a diverse group of experts. Participants included leaders from academia, civil society organizations, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and government bodies. Professor Saurabh Gupta, Co-Head of CDPM, moderated the session. The panel sought to identify key challenges and solutions for poverty alleviation.
Experts Address Inequality and Mobility Gaps
Professor Anirudh Krishna from Duke University, USA, was a key speaker. He authored ‘The Broken Ladder’. Professor Krishna highlighted a significant paradox in India’s development. He noted India exhibits low intergenerational mobility despite recording high economic growth rates. Furthermore, he stated inequality continues to rise across the country. Krishna emphasized that the state alone cannot achieve true upward mobility. He argued for a broader societal partnership. This partnership must involve communities, civil society groups, and the private sector.
Shaheen Mistri, Founder and CEO of Teach for India, drew on over three decades of experience. She observed improvements in access to schooling and basic services for low-income communities. However, Mistri cautioned that families remain vulnerable. This vulnerability stems from precarious livelihoods. She acknowledged positive intergenerational changes in some areas. Despite this, Mistri stressed education alone cannot lift families out of poverty. It requires wider structural support. She also voiced concerns regarding growing social divisions within society.
Strategies from Corporate and Government Sectors
Anupam Nidhi, Group Head–CSR at Vedanta and Head–CSR at Hindustan Zinc Ltd., shared insights on corporate efforts. Nidhi reflected on the evolution of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in India. She detailed changes since the implementation of the Companies Act, 2013 . Nidhi noted a clear shift in CSR approaches. Spending moved from short-term projects to long-term, impact-driven investments. These investments target skills development, livelihood creation, and community development programs. Many such initiatives operate in partnership with government bodies.
Rohit Gupta (IAS), Chairman and Managing Director of Rajasthan Renewable Energy Corporation Ltd., focused on government interventions. He underscored the critical role of social security schemes. Public health initiatives and residential schooling programs also contribute significantly. These measures help prevent downward mobility for vulnerable populations. Gupta acknowledged persistent challenges in delivering quality services. These challenges often affect remote and hard-to-reach regions. He concluded that improved digital connectivity is gradually narrowing these service delivery gaps.
Achieving Inclusive Growth: A Collaborative Path
The panel discussion concluded with a shared perspective on India’s progress. Experts agreed the nation is moving in a positive direction. However, achieving genuinely inclusive growth requires accelerated action. It demands equitable access to opportunities for all citizens. Furthermore, sustained collaboration across all sectors remains essential. The panelists emphasized a collective focus on ensuring dignity, promoting equity, and driving long-term positive impact for a more inclusive future.