• Dr.Abdul Kareem.O.C

This paper investigates the disparities between official government statistics and independent research findings on economic inequality in India up to 2022. It analyzes income and wealth distribution, tax policies, and the socioeconomic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to highlight the contrast between official narratives and more critical external assessments. The study concludes with actionable recommendations aimed at enhancing data transparency and developing inclusive economic policies. Driven by the urgent need to understand the complex dimensions of inequality, this research undertakes a comprehensive examination of the root causes and far-reaching consequences of India’s widening income gap. It also explores stark regional disparities across the country and evaluates potential policy responses to address them. The paper further examines the social and political ramifications of economic inequality, including its potential to fuel social unrest and influence democratic governance. A dedicated focus is placed on the gender aspect of inequality, with an emphasis on promoting both gender equity and broader economic justice. By synthesizing a wide range of existing studies, this research contributes to a more nuanced understanding of economic inequality in India and offers pathways toward inclusive growth and social equity. The share of the top 1% in total income in India was 13% in 1961, and, in fact, declined gradually to 6.9% in 1981. Then, it started climbing up from the 1990s onwards, going up from 10.4% in 1991 to 21.7% in 2019. According to Oxfam India, “Inequality Kills” Report, the wealth of India's richest families reached to a record high in 2021. In the report, India was described as a 'very unequal,' country, as the top 10 people in India holds 57 per cent of the wealth

Keywords: Economic Inequality, Regional disparity, Oxfam India, Policy Intervention, Inclusive Economic Policy

"Economic Inequality in India: Revealing the Hidden Disparities Behind Official Figures", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 8, page no.f513-f518, August-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2408760.pdf

"Economic Inequality in India: Revealing the Hidden Disparities Behind Official Figures", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 8, page no. ppf513-f518, August-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2408760.pdf