Summary
India is conducting a large experiment by giving monthly cash payments to over 118 million adult women in 12 states. These payments, ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 rupees, are given without conditions and aim to recognize women's unpaid work at home. The initiative has had political impacts, influencing election outcomes in some states.
Key Facts
- Over 118 million women in 12 Indian states receive monthly payments from the government.
- Payments range from 1,000 to 2,500 rupees ($12-$30) each month.
- The money is given unconditionally, meaning there are no requirements to receive it.
- Payments are intended to acknowledge women's unpaid domestic and care work.
- The policy has had political effects, influencing elections and voter turnout.
- In Bihar, the government transferred 10,000 rupees to female bank accounts before elections, affecting voting results.
- Goa was the first state in India to start this cash transfer scheme for women in 2013.
- Over 300 million women in India now have bank accounts, making the transfers easier to manage.
