In order to evaluate the self-development capacity of contiguous destitute area objectively, we need a scientific and reasonable, realistic evaluation index system. This paper redefined and explained the concept of regional self-development capacity from four subsystems such as the self-development capacity of industry, market, space and soft power firstly, then, constructed a self-development capacity evaluation indicator system of contiguous destitute area which covers 4 sub-systems, 13 first-class indicators and 62 second-class indicators. Finally, there was a detailed description of the assessment methods for each indicator. <<