Besides the welfare schemes, India needs deft management of inflation and unemployment to serve the poor and the underprivileged sections of society. Discuss. (250 words) [2022]
In India, addressing the needs of the poor and underprivileged sections of society requires not only welfare schemes but also effective management of inflation and unemployment. This can be achieved through the following measures:
- Inflation Management: Inflation erodes the purchasing power of money, disproportionately affecting the poor. To manage inflation, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) can use monetary policy tools such as adjusting interest rates, reserve ratios, and open market operations. Additionally, the government can implement fiscal policies, such as controlling public expenditure and managing subsidies, to curb inflationary pressures.
- Unemployment Management: Unemployment exacerbates poverty and social inequality. To tackle this issue, the government can invest in skill development programs, promote entrepreneurship, and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. For example, the Skill India initiative aims to train millions of youth in various sectors, enhancing their employability.
- Targeted Welfare Schemes: While welfare schemes are essential, they must be targeted effectively to reach the intended beneficiaries. The government can leverage technology, such as the Aadhaar identification system, to ensure that subsidies and benefits are directly transferred to the needy, minimizing leakages and corruption.
- Inclusive Growth: Fostering inclusive growth is crucial for addressing the needs of the poor and underprivileged. This entails investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, particularly in rural and marginalized areas. For instance, the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) focuses on improving rural connectivity, facilitating access to markets, education, and healthcare facilities.
- Social Protection: Strengthening social protection systems, such as pensions, unemployment benefits, and insurance, can help cushion the impact of economic shocks on vulnerable populations. The Atal Pension Yojana, for example, provides a minimum guaranteed pension to workers in the unorganized sector.
In conclusion, a multi-pronged approach that combines welfare schemes with effective management of inflation and unemployment is essential to uplift the poor and underprivileged sections of Indian society.
