In the context of Rajasthan Minimum Guaranteed Income Bill, 2023, discuss the concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) as a potential social welfare policy and its implications for poverty reduction and economic development in India.

Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment

5. In the context of Rajasthan Minimum Guaranteed Income Bill, 2023, discuss the concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) as a potential social welfare policy and its implications for poverty reduction and economic development in India. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

Under the Bill, all families of the state get guaranteed employment of 125 days every year, while the aged, disabled, widows, and single women get a minimum pension of Rs 1,000 per month.

Key Demand of the question:

To discuss the concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) as a social welfare policy and assess its potential implications for poverty reduction and economic development in India.

Directive word: 

Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin giving context and defining the concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI)

Body:

First, write about Universal Basic Income (UBI) and its key features. Discuss the rationale behind implementing UBI, including its potential to alleviate poverty and provide a safety net to citizens.

Next, write about the challenges of UBI implementation in India and potential implications of UBI on economic growth and development, including its impact on the labor market and government finances.

Conclusion:

Conclude by presenting a balanced view on the feasibility and desirability of implementing UBI in India.