India is a land of diversity, traditions, and rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in society. But when we talk about poverty and economic inequality in India, a striking contradiction emerges.
80 Crore People Receive Free Rations, Yet India Is the World’s Largest Gold Importer — Why?
According to official government data, around 800 million (80 crore) people in India receive free food grains every month. This clearly shows that a significant portion of the population is still struggling around the poverty line.
And yet, paradoxically, India is the world’s largest importer of gold.
This contradiction is not only surprising — it raises a serious question:
When so many people are struggling to afford two meals a day, who is buying gold in such large quantities?
Tradition or Burden?
The answer lies in the deeply embedded traditional and orthodox mindset of our society. In India, even today, an average person — regardless of their financial status — considers it their duty to buy gold for their children’s weddings.
People often take on loans or spend their life savings just to purchase gold jewelry for weddings, all to maintain their “respect” in society.
This mindset later leads to financial stress and mental pressure, trapping families in debt for years.
Indian Women and the Obsession with Gold
A report states that Indian women collectively own more gold than the total reserves of many entire countries.
But have we ever asked ourselves — how useful is this gold in our daily lives?
Gold, while being a precious metal, has very limited practical utility in everyday life. Still, in Indian society, it has become a symbol of status and tradition.
China vs India: Difference in Mindset, Difference in Progress
If we look back in history, India was economically stronger than China during the 1970s and 1980s. But today, China has surged far ahead.
Why?
Because China adapted with time. They invested in education, innovation, and manufacturing.
India, on the other hand, remains entangled in outdated customs and societal pressures, which continue to slow down its path to true progress.
Time to Change Our Thinking
If India truly wants to advance, it’s essential that we reform our mindset.
Instead of investing in gold, we should invest in education.
We must empower our children with higher education, skills, and self-reliance.
Let’s break free from the chains of outdated traditions and make decisions based on logic and wisdom.
Conclusion: What Is Real Wealth?
Gold is just a metal — valuable, yes, but with limited purpose in day-to-day life.
But education, awareness, and progressive thinking are the real assets that can brighten India’s future.
