Poverty is defined as a state where people cannot afford basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter. There are two types of poverty: absolute and relative. A country remains poor due to a vicious cycle - low savings leads to less investment and lower incomes, perpetuating poverty. Causes of poverty include climatic factors, high population growth, family size, lack of motivation, idleness, low agricultural productivity, and few employment opportunities. Measures to prevent poverty include generating more jobs, minimum needs programs, social security, small industries, and increasing education.