Azim Premji University Research Fellow Mrinalini Jha on Rising Inequality in India

The video discusses the multifaceted impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on inequality in India, highlighting income loss, gender disparity in employment, and government financial constraints. It emphasizes the urgent need for measures to support vulnerable populations and explores the long-term implications of the pandemic, particularly on women, who have been disproportionately affected.

What percentage of income did the bottom 20% of households lose during the COVID-19 months?

• 35%

• 27%

• 15%

• 50%

What urgent measure is suggested to support vulnerable sections during the pandemic?

• Increase taxes

• Implement lockdowns

• Reduce healthcare spending

• Provide cash transfers

What is one of the suggested measures to help the economy recover?

• Privatize healthcare

• Reduce public spending

• Increase import tariffs

• Universalize the public distribution system

What is a long-term implication of the pandemic for the poorest populations?

• Improved job security

• Higher social security

• Increased savings

• Wiped out savings

How much more likely were women to lose their jobs compared to men during the lockdown?

• Three times

• Five times

• Seven times

• Ten times

What is a significant challenge faced by women in the workforce post-lockdown?

• Higher wages

• Increased benefits

• Job security

• Precarious employment

What is the impact of the pandemic on female labor force participation?

• Increased participation

• Stagnation

• No change

• Complete recovery