LANZHOU, Jan. 17 -- About 935,000 people bid farewell to poverty last year in northwest China's Gansu Province, believed to be burdened with the heaviest poverty alleviation task in China, the local government said Friday.

According to the provincial rural work conference, the poverty headcount ratio has dropped to 0.9 percent, from 26.5 percent in 2013.

Besides, 31 counties were no longer labeled poor as of the end of 2019. About 70 percent, or 650,000, shook off poverty by finding jobs in industries tailored for poverty alleviation, official figures showed.

Compulsory education, basic medical care, safe housing and drinking water have been ensured for all residents across the province.

There were still 175,000 poor residents by the end of last year, who will be assisted to shake off poverty this year.