Why welfare isn't winning elections in India like it used to
Summary
Political parties in India widely use welfare programs like cash transfers and subsidies to gain voter support. However, recent elections show that offering welfare alone is not enough to keep power, as voters also consider other factors like broader political alliances and party leadership.Key Facts
- Indian governments from various parties now offer pensions, cash payments, scholarships, cheap food, and support for women and unemployed youth.
- Welfare spending has become common across states and is no longer a unique political advantage.
- Recent election losses of welfare-focused leaders in Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Kerala suggest welfare alone does not guarantee voter support.
- Political experts say welfare is now a basic expectation ("floor") of politics, while parties compete on additional issues ("ceiling").
- The rise of the BJP in Assam combines welfare programs with religious appeals and promises of efficient governance.
- Women are a key group in welfare programs and elections, often receiving targeted benefits and voting in large numbers.
- Indian states will spend around $18 billion on unconditional cash transfers in 2025-26, much aimed at women.
- In some poorer areas, welfare payments make up a large part of household income for women workers.
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