According to Panos, a London-based NGO that stimulates informed and inclusive public debate around key development issues, it's time to involve the media in poverty reduction. Good journalism can shape public opinion and act as a lever for policy change. It can raise awkward questions and champion the views of poor people. At a time when the world is struggling to achieve the Millennium Development Goals, this report argues that many international donors are yet to appreciate that a vibrant, independent media sector is essential for development and needs support. Based on findings from six countries in Africa and South Asia, 'Making poverty the story' analyses the serious political, commercial and professional obstacles to stronger media coverage, highlights where the media have played a part in raising debate, and identifies what civil society and other policy actors could do to support more effective reporting.

Wada-Na-Todo-Abhiyan (Keep The Promise campaign) has prepared an 'India Checklist on the MDGs' which serves as a ready-reference on the progress made by the government against the key targets and indicators of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

India has an all-important role to play in the achievement of the MDGs, and the broader global objectives laid down in the Millennium Declaration. The progress made by India will significantly determine whether the world as a whole will be able to meet some of the most critical targets of the MDGs – such as in relation to Infant Mortality Rates (IMR), Maternal Mortality Rates (MMR), School Enrollment & Retention, access to Water & Sanitation.