The previous government distributed freebies in the form of pension for elders, artists, craftsmen, actors, singers, traditional skilled workers, rural workers, monthly income for house wires, widows, lump sum amount for girls, unemployment allowance and many more.
The intention appeared to be in good interest of the public, but has resulted in a major failure and caused more harm in the social fiber of the state than good. This is because while the genuine beneficiaries constituted hardly around thirty percent, a major chunk of the beneficiaries got it on contacts, links and whims of politicians who distributed freely (immaterial of merit) for securing votes in the ensuing elections.
This has created major discontent and hate among thousands of others who did not get it, resulting in a severe beating at the polls. Such freebies are creating apathy and laziness and these receivers now consider it their right, hence are not grateful for what they have been receiving from the government. Even the deserving ones are not happy and expect more.
One has to make people ‘earn' rather give it on a platter, then only it has value and meaning in public life. It is high time all these freebies are reviewed and withdrawn immediately in the interest of the larger group in society. Only 30% genuine ones will feel bad/affected, but the other 70% will not mind as the free amount received was spent mostly for entertainment and other such unproductive use. The biggest advantage will be colossal saving to the exchequer. Moreover, at least 200-500 disgruntled elements in each ward will be happy and relieved.
The government instead of such freebies should consider subsidised water, electricity and distribution of essential items which will go a long way.
B V S Priolkar, Margao
The intention appeared to be in good interest of the public, but has resulted in a major failure and caused more harm in the social fiber of the state than good. This is because while the genuine beneficiaries constituted hardly around thirty percent, a major chunk of the beneficiaries got it on contacts, links and whims of politicians who distributed freely (immaterial of merit) for securing votes in the ensuing elections.
This has created major discontent and hate among thousands of others who did not get it, resulting in a severe beating at the polls. Such freebies are creating apathy and laziness and these receivers now consider it their right, hence are not grateful for what they have been receiving from the government. Even the deserving ones are not happy and expect more.
One has to make people ‘earn' rather give it on a platter, then only it has value and meaning in public life. It is high time all these freebies are reviewed and withdrawn immediately in the interest of the larger group in society. Only 30% genuine ones will feel bad/affected, but the other 70% will not mind as the free amount received was spent mostly for entertainment and other such unproductive use. The biggest advantage will be colossal saving to the exchequer. Moreover, at least 200-500 disgruntled elements in each ward will be happy and relieved.
The government instead of such freebies should consider subsidised water, electricity and distribution of essential items which will go a long way.
B V S Priolkar, Margao
