The Socialist Party (India) is of the view that the Union Budget is disappointing as it lacks clear plans and vision to address the problems of common citizens of India, especially the marginalized sections of population. To solve the problems of farmers or workers, constructive measures are not proposed. There is no relief for the farmer either in terms of promise of guaranteed Minimum Support Prices or from the worry of stray cattle. The uncertainty and insecurity of majority of workers falling in the category of unorganized, contract, daily wages category continues with no guarantee of minimum wages and other social security.
There are no plans to address unemployment. MNREGA, which proved to be life saver during COVID crisis, still doesn’t have enough funds allocation to guarantee 100 days of employment for unskilled rural workers. Continuation of free food grains as part of PDS for another year is welcome.
The decrease in allocation for health care in the budget from 2.19% to 1.97% is condemnable. With a child wasting rate (low weight for height) of 19.3%, which is worst in the world, and other poor health indices, the government can even think of reducing expenditure on health care is unimaginable. On the other hand continuing to benefit the private sector through health insurance instead of strengthening the public health system is self-defeating.
There is no promise for universalization of elementary education. The government is not allocating enough funds to even support the legal guarantee free education of at least 25% children from weaker sections and disadvantaged groups in private unaided schools. Majority of states and union territories are not implementing this provision of the Right to Education Act.
While the increase in income tax threshold to Rs. 7 lakhs is welcome, reducing the surcharge levied on those with income above Rs. 15 lakhs, makes it clear who the government is helping. There is nothing in the budget to arrest the dangerous trend of increasing gap between the rich and the poor. On the other hand this gap will continue to keep growing.
Manoj Sarang
Spokesperson, Socialist Party (India)
Mobile No.: 9446835833, 8921519296
Emails: ashaashram@yahoo.com, bobbyramakant@yahoo.com
