Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the
performance of these schemes
2) Critically analyze whether strengthening MGNREGA would prove more beneficial than investing in PM KISAN?(250 words)
Why this question
The article compares and contrasts MGNREGA scheme with PM KISAN and makes a point in favour of universal schemes as opposed to targeted scheme. The article provides a refreshing analysis of the PM KISAN scheme which had been keeping the editorials column busy since its announcement in union budget.
Key demand of the question
The question expects us to bring out the pros and cons of the MGNREGA vis a vis PM Kisan. What the question is looking for is your reasoned arguments and the final view that you have on the basis of those arguments over whether a universal scheme makes more sense than a targeted one.
Directive word
Critically analyze – When asked to analyze, you have to examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them as a whole in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, all you need to do is look at the good and bad of something and give a fair judgement.
Structure of the answer
Introduction – Explain about the PM KISAN and MGNREGA and how they are both important in the welfare paradigm of the country.
Body
- Explain in detail about the MGNREGA and PM KISAN scheme
- Compare and contrast the two covering points such as
- Intended beneficiaries
- Income potential under the two
- Impact on women
- Bureaucratic efficiency
- Universal vs targeted
- Give your view on the basis of these arguments over what would make more sense
Conclusion – Give a fair and balanced view and discuss way forward.
