Describe how the poverty line is estimated in India

Answer: As per 2000 figures; a family of five which is earning less than Rs. 1,640 per month is considered to be living below the poverty line. 

This figure is Rs. 2,270 per month for the urban area. The expected calorie intake has been fixed at 2400 calories per person in rural areas and 2100 calories in urban areas. 

A person consuming less than this amount is considered to be living below the poverty line.