The dialogue

The thick red line

The thick red line

HT Image

You look visibly happy? Won a lottery?

Not a lottery, but I'm no longer poor!

So you finally got a job?

Even better. I don't need a job! The Planning Commission has said that if you earn about R 31 per day, you're no longer below the poverty line.

So how much do you earn?

About Rs 31 a day.

So you're on the poverty line then.

Hmm. Never thought of that. At least I'm not below it anymore.

So you can't see it anymore?

What can't I see?

The poverty line.

You're right! Does that mean I'm now rich?

No, just that you're standing on it.

Oh goodie. Now I don't need anything from the State for food, health, and education!

Do say: At last India's affluent.

Don't say: So do they have to pay tax?