Vulnerable Sections

Model Answer

Introduction

The Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Scheme represents a significant reform in the Indian government’s delivery system, allowing subsidies and benefits to be transferred directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts. This initiative aims to enhance transparency, reduce corruption, and improve the efficiency of welfare programs. While the DBT scheme is a progressive step, it also presents several limitations.

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Advantages of the DBT Scheme

1. Transparency and Efficiency

The DBT scheme minimizes intermediaries, thereby reducing leakages and corruption. By transferring benefits directly, the government ensures that funds reach the intended beneficiaries. For instance, the PM-KISAN scheme provides income support directly to farmers, helping them invest in essential agricultural inputs.

2. Empowerment

The scheme empowers beneficiaries by providing them more control over their entitlements. For example, the PM Ujjwala Scheme promotes access to clean cooking fuel, enhancing women’s empowerment and reducing their dependence on traditional fuel sources.

3. Financial Inclusion

DBT encourages beneficiaries to open bank accounts, promoting financial inclusion and increasing access to credit and other financial services. This shift fosters greater engagement with the formal financial system.

4. Monitoring and Evaluation

The DBT scheme allows for better tracking of benefit disbursement, facilitating improved monitoring and evaluation of welfare programs.

Limitations of the DBT Scheme

1. Digital Divide

In rural areas, low internet penetration and limited digital literacy can exclude vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and people with disabilities, from accessing their entitlements. For example, the National Health Insurance Scheme has seen limited coverage due to awareness and connectivity issues.

2. Banking Infrastructure

Inadequate banking infrastructure can delay benefit disbursement and create access difficulties for beneficiaries, particularly in remote areas.

3. Identification and Targeting

Errors in beneficiary identification can lead to exclusion of deserving individuals, undermining the scheme’s effectiveness.

4. Administrative Capacity

Limited administrative capacity can result in processing delays and grievances, affecting the overall efficiency of the DBT system.

Conclusion

While the DBT scheme offers a progressive approach to government welfare delivery, addressing its limitations is crucial for maximizing its benefits. Ensuring the system’s inclusivity, accessibility, and efficiency will enhance its effectiveness for all beneficiaries.

Model Answer

Introduction

Development and welfare schemes play a crucial role in uplifting marginalized sections of society, aiming for socio-economic development. While these initiatives are essential for addressing disparities, they can be perceived as discriminatory. This duality requires a nuanced discussion.

Arguments Supporting Discrimination

Focused Approach

Critics argue that schemes like reservation policies in education and government jobs create a perception of unfairness among non-reserved categories. This can dilute meritocracy, leading some to view these measures as discriminatory rather than equitable.

Resource Allocation

Welfare initiatives such as MGNREGA primarily target rural populations, potentially neglecting urban poor communities. This focus can foster feelings of exclusion among those in urban areas who also face significant economic challenges (The Hindu).

Potential for Misuse

Programs like the Public Distribution System (PDS), intended to provide essential commodities to the economically weaker, often face corruption and diversion of resources, undermining their effectiveness.

Creation of Dependency

Schemes providing free utilities to farmers can inadvertently create a dependency culture, discouraging self-reliance and sustainable practices.

Geographical Disparities

Certain schemes, such as the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE), may lead to perceptions of discrimination in regions that do not receive similar attention.

Counter-Arguments: Necessity for Targeted Approaches

Social Justice

Welfare schemes like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao aim to address gender imbalances and promote the education of girls, working towards a more equitable society.

Economic Equity

Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana has fostered financial inclusion, bringing many into the formal banking sector and promoting economic equity.

Health and Wellbeing

Ayushman Bharat provides substantial health coverage to the poor, ensuring access to necessary healthcare services.

Educational Equity

The Mid Day Meal Scheme not only promotes education among disadvantaged children but also addresses malnutrition.

Infrastructure Development

Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana connects rural areas with urban centers, facilitating access to economic opportunities.

Tribal Empowerment

VAN DHAN YOJANA supports the tribal economy by providing market avenues for forest products.

Conclusion

While criticisms of development and welfare schemes as being discriminatory hold merit, it is essential to recognize their role in promoting inclusivity and equity. A balanced approach that addresses these concerns while continuing to support targeted interventions is crucial for fostering a more equitable society. Effective implementation and monitoring can help ensure these schemes serve their intended purpose without perpetuating discrimination.