This report investigates the critical relationship between poverty alleviation and the long-term sustainability of economic growth within the South Asian region. The Mahbub ul Haq Human Development Centre utilizes extensive regional data to argue that current economic gains remain fragile without targeted interventions to address systemic poverty. The report provides a comprehensive framework for policymakers to align economic development strategies with human development goals.

Experts recognize this report as a foundational document for understanding the socio-economic landscape of South Asia during the mid-2000s. Researchers frequently cite the text for its rigorous data collection and its clear articulation of the challenges facing regional development policy.