ABSTRACT
In social science research, we confront both qualitative as well as quantitative variables. The qualitative variable is measured ordinally and it is subject to fluctuation. Different scales or degrees are assigned in perception-based study in case of qualitative variables. Social variables are complex, interdependent, many in numbers and most of the variables vary over time and space. Given this problem in social research, we try to estimate the relative position of an individual based on various numeric and non-numeric characteristics; sometimes we compare between two or multiple groups based on various characteristics or attributes. This requires some yardstick, a measuring rod which is to be constructed using a single variable or multiple variables. Keeping in mind the broad perspectives of social research, an attempt here is made to construct various development vis-à-vis deprivation indices.
