Politics

BJP offers freebies for farmers and women amid election countdowns

Published

3 months ago

July 18, 2024

The BJP-led NDA government has rolled out a series of attractive freebies targeting farmers and women below the poverty line, echoing strategies reminiscent of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). In a parallel move, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced significant financial aid for 12th-grade graduates. Despite the populist appeal, economic experts are raising alarms over the potential long-term implications of these giveaways.

Budget Bonanza: Farmers and Women Take Center Stage

According to insider sources, the upcoming budget is expected to focus heavily on farmers and women, a strategic response to BJP’s recent loss of an absolute majority in general elections and the upcoming state assembly elections. The PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, which currently disburses Rs 6,000 annually to land-holding farmers in three equal instalments, might see a substantial increase to Rs 12,000 per year. The payout structure could also shift to monthly transfers of Rs 1,000.

Furthermore, the budget may introduce a groundbreaking scheme, offering Rs 1 lakh to women below the poverty line, marking a significant step in financial empowerment.

Reinforcing Success: Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana

The government plans to further bolster the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, a rural housing success story. By June 12, 2024, the scheme had sanctioned 2.94 crore houses and completed 2.62 crore, demonstrating substantial progress and commitment to rural development.

Maharashtra’s ‘Ladla Bhai Yojna’: A Lifeline for Young Graduates

In a significant pre-election announcement, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde launched the ‘Ladla Bhai Yojna’ during Ashadhi Ekadashi celebrations in Pandharpur. This initiative offers Rs. 6,000 per month to 12th-pass students, Rs. 8,000 to diploma holders, and Rs. 10,000 to graduates, providing crucial financial support to young individuals. The scheme aims to improve employment prospects and ease the transition from education to the workforce, addressing a critical need in the state.