The debate between freebies and welfare schemes centers on sustainability. Freebies, like cash transfers, are short-term populist measures, while welfare schemes, such as mid-day meals, address long-term socio-economic needs. Dialogue suggests regulating freebies to avoid fiscal strain while promoting targeted, needs-based welfare policies for sustainable growth and development.
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Understanding the distinction between freebies and welfare schemes is key to crafting effective public policy.
The Freebies v/s Welfare Schemes debate circles near whether electoral freebies, such as cash transfers and subsidies, are essential welfare measures or populist tools used to influence voters.
Critics argue that freebies strain state finances and undermine economic growth, while supporters claim they empower marginalized communities and address immediate socio-economic needs.
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Freebies promised during the Delhi Assembly elections ● Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) promised ₹2,100 monthly allowance for women. ● Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) offered ₹2,500 monthly aid for women, ₹21,000 for pregnant women, and subsidized LPG cylinders at ₹500 for low-income families. ● Congress promised ₹2,500 monthly stipend for women and free health insurance coverage of up to ₹25 lakh. |
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has criticized the "revdi culture" (a term he coined for freebies), calling it "very dangerous for the country’s development." He warned that such practices could harm long-term economic growth.
Welfare Measures are long-term policies aimed at enhancing human capabilities, such as mid-day meals, public distribution systems, and healthcare. They align with the "capability approach" proposed by Amartya Sen.
Freebies are short-term, populist measures like cash transfers, free electricity, or laptops, which may not contribute to sustainable development.
Cash transfer programs, especially those targeting women, can reduce intimate partner violence and empower households.
Schemes like mid-day meals improve nutrition, immunity, and overall health, reducing long-term healthcare costs.
Welfare measures can stimulate market activity by increasing consumer spending.
In 2022, the Supreme Court referred petitions challenging freebies to a three-judge bench, suggesting they could disrupt free and fair elections, however, the Court ruled that such matters fall under legislative policy and are beyond judicial scrutiny.
Delhi High Court refused urgent hearings on petitions against freebies, stressing that regulating electoral sops is the legislature’s duty.
The Commission introduced a pro-forma in October 2022, which required political parties to explain the financial feasibility of their poll promises.
Parliament should define and regulate freebies to ensure that they do not undermine fiscal stability.
Focus on needs-based schemes that address long-term economic impact rather than universal handouts.
Investment in employment generation initiatives, encourage skill development, and provide infrastructure support to create sustainable opportunities.
Welfare measures are essential for socio-economic development, however, freebie-based politics can weaken state finances and hamper long-term growth, therefore a balanced approach, combining targeted welfare programs with fiscal responsibility, is essential for ensuring long term sustainable development. The legislature, rather than the judiciary, should lead efforts to regulate electoral sops and ensure they align with broader economic goals.
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Welfare schemes aim at social security, while freebies promote populism. Critically analyze. 250 words |
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