China has maintained its momentum in the battle against poverty, building on the remarkable victory declared in February 2021 when nearly 99 million rural residents rose above the poverty line. 🏆 But the mission doesn't stop there. Now, China is focused on consolidating these gains and ensuring long-term stability.
To keep poverty at bay, the Chinese mainland has rolled out top-level designs and policy safeguards. After the successful poverty alleviation campaign, a five-year transition period was set up in 2020 to provide ongoing support to previously impoverished regions and individuals. This period has seen major assistance policies that smoothly transition efforts from poverty alleviation to rural revitalization.
A key part of this strategy is a dynamic monitoring and assistance system. This system keeps a close eye on households that might be at risk of falling back into poverty. Through regular checks and proactive management, early detection and support ensure that no one slips through the cracks. 🔍
Zhang Xingwang, vice minister of agriculture and rural affairs, highlighted at a January press conference the specific measures being taken to support industrial growth, employment, and social security. Rural specialty industries are booming, with all 832 counties removed from the poverty list in 2020 now nurturing two to three leading industries each, generating over 1.7 trillion yuan ($230 billion). 📈 This boosts income stability for those who have overcome poverty.
By the end of 2024, employment from former poverty-stricken areas reached 33.05 million, maintaining a strong level above 30 million for four consecutive years. In addition, China's multi-level social security system has been enhanced to provide continuous support in education, healthcare, housing, and other vital areas. 🏡
These efforts are paying off. By November 2024, 5.34 million people at risk of falling back into poverty received assistance, effectively eliminating their risk. Moreover, in the first three quarters of 2024, the per capita disposable income of farmers in these regions rose by 6.5%, surpassing the national rural income growth rate for four years in a row.
Looking Ahead
The latest \"No. 1 central document\" for 2025 emphasizes the importance of preventing both lapses and relapses into poverty. It calls for a categorized assistance system for low-income residents and underdeveloped rural areas, aiming to boost agricultural efficiency, invigorate rural regions, and increase farmers' incomes. 🌾
As the five-year transition period concludes next year, China remains steadfast in its commitment to shielding its population from poverty. Han Wenxiu, executive deputy director of the Office of the Central Committee for Financial and Economic Affairs, assured that support policies will continue and be refined to meet ongoing needs. \"The bottom line must be upheld persistently and permanently,\" he stated.
With these comprehensive strategies in place, China is laying a solid foundation for advancing its modernization goals while ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey towards prosperity.
Reference(s):
China continues fight against poverty as it safeguards progress
cgtn.com
