Infosys co-founder and renowned IT industry veteran Narayana Murthy has once again sparked a debate on the role of freebies and subsidies in governance. In a recent address, Murthy asserted that while providing subsidies and welfare programs is crucial for supporting the underprivileged, it should not come at the expense of expecting something in return from the beneficiaries.
Murthy’s stance stems from the belief that freebies, when provided without any obligations or expectations, can foster a culture of entitlement and discourage individuals from taking responsibility for their own well-being. He advocates for a system of conditional subsidies, where beneficiaries are expected to contribute something in return, whether it be through education, skill development, or community service.
The Argument for Conditional Subsidies
Murthy’s argument for conditional subsidies is rooted in the idea of empowering individuals and promoting self-sufficiency. By attaching conditions to subsidies, governments can encourage beneficiaries to invest in their own growth and development, leading to long-term benefits for both individuals and society as a whole.
For instance, providing financial assistance for education could be conditional on regular attendance and satisfactory academic performance. Similarly, subsidies for skill development programs could require beneficiaries to complete the training and secure employment. Such conditions not only promote personal growth but also contribute to the overall skill development of the workforce.
Balancing Welfare with Responsibility
The debate surrounding freebies often centers on the balance between providing for the underprivileged and ensuring that such programs do not create a dependency trap. Murthy’s call for conditional subsidies seeks to strike this balance by recognizing the importance of welfare measures while also promoting individual responsibility and self-reliance.
Governments have a responsibility to provide for those in need, and subsidies can play a crucial role in alleviating poverty and promoting social equity. However, it is equally important to ensure that these programs do not foster a culture of entitlement or discourage individuals from taking charge of their own lives.
A Path Towards Sustainable Welfare
Conditional subsidies, as advocated by Narayana Murthy, offer a potential path towards sustainable welfare. By linking subsidies to individual contributions, governments can promote both short-term relief and long-term empowerment, fostering a society where individuals are not just recipients of handouts but active participants in their own development.
The implementation of conditional subsidies requires careful consideration and design, ensuring that the conditions are appropriate, achievable, and aligned with the overall goals of the welfare program. However, the potential benefits of such an approach are significant, as it can lead to a more responsible and sustainable system of social support.
