INTRODUCTION: it is true that we have spectacular advancements in the area of science and technology but it is also true that we have millions of people who have no access to food and basic essentials to survive. Although poverty has been dramatically reduced in many parts of the world, a quarter of the world’s people remain in severe poverty. Technology has the strength to make a difference to this world. The problem is not the tool but the direction in which it can be utilized. There is a need to develop a new pathway in which technology not only produces increases in manufacturing productivity but also touches the lives of down trodden and those living in the brink of poverty. Technology relates to poverty in many ways it reduces it, it promotes it, it helps poor to survive. We will discuss its different aspects related to poverty.
POVERTY: In broader sense to be poor is to be hungry, to lack shelter and clothing, to be illiterate and not schooled and not to be cared for. Progress in human development and poverty eradication is achieved through revolts, history is full of such uprisings. poverty is not only linked with lack of income but also lack of fulfillment of basic needs such as water, shelter, food and clothing and human suffering and poverty. In India, poverty is officially linked to a nutritional baseline measured in calories (food energy method). The Planning Commission defines poverty lines as a per capita monthly expenditure of Rs 49 for the rural areas and Rs 57 in urban areas at 1973-74 all India prices. Poverty line correspond to a total household per capita expenditure sufficient to provide, in addition to basic non-food items – clothing, transport – a daily intake of 2,400 calories per person in rural areas and 2,100 in urban areas. Individuals who do not meet these calorie norms fall below the poverty line.
Technology: In broader terms technology is practical application of science.