The Big Picture - Freebie Model of Governance

The role of freebies in Indian Politics has been expanding specially in the past decade. Political parties have changed their strategy for attracting voters. Freebies cover a wide range of goods and services such as bicycles, laptops, smartphones, TV sets, waiver on water and electricity bills etc. An analysis of manifestos of various political parties done by Election Commission earlier this year reveals a marked emphasis on distribution of freebies and doles to voters. Almost all political parties promise freebies which are then implemented in some way or the other once they are voted to power. So what is the rationale behind this freebie model of governance and how sustainable or justified is this model ?

Guests:
Sanjay Kumar, Director, Centre for the Study of Developing Societies
Ashok Tandon, Senior Journalist
Aditi Phadnis, Political Editor, Business standard

Anchor: Vishal Dahiya