The focus of welfare schemes in India is shifting from 'well-being' towards 'over-dependency'. In light of this, do you agree that welfare schemes have inculcated a 'freebies culture' in India leading to a divergence of focus from poverty and hunger alleviation?

Part IV of the Constitution declares India to be a welfare state. To fulfil this aim numerous welfare schemes have been launched by Indian state. However, there is a growing concern that welfare schemes are creating citizens dependent instead of good empowerment. Welfare schemes inculcating a freebies culture is visible on many fronts: (1) No time limit of welfare scheme benefit so often benefits are perpetuity. (2) Targeting of welfare schemes remain poor. (3) welfare schemes often used for vote bank politics.

instead of ensuring food benefits. (4) Inefficiencies in delivery: Byrita Kumar Committee supported Lok Lakeages in PPS. (5) Food rations are given to 8000 individuals but poverty levels are at 10.2% (Mint Aryos, 2024 MPI). However, welfare schemes on the other hand are needed to prevent people from falling in extreme poverty. Reforms that can be done: (1) Direct Benefit Transfer to reduce leakages. (2) Focus schemes towards empowered like skill development, training, etc. (3) Schemes like DAY-NRLM which promote self employment via Skills can be promoted. (4) Providing welfare benefits for a time limit. Thus, our approach needs to change from creating dependency to empowerment.