Dhankhar calls for debate on government freebies' impact

Rajya Sabha chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar stressed the importance of discussing investment and freebies among lawmakers. He said that the country's growth depends on proper capital expenditure. During a recent meeting, he urged a national policy to ensure government investments benefit everyone. His comments came after Samajwadi Party lawmaker Ramgopal Yadav requested an increase in the Members of Parliament Local Area Development (MPLAD) funds from ₹5 crore to ₹20 crore. Yadav argued that the current funds are insufficient due to inflation and taxes. Yadav highlighted that many MPs lose elections because of inadequate MPLAD funds. He noted that in states like Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, local lawmakers receive more funding than MPs. The MPLADS scheme allows lawmakers to propose development projects in their areas, such as roads and schools. As lawmakers from various parties supported Yadav's request, Dhankhar observed disparities in how funds are allocated between MPs and state lawmakers. He pointed out that some states offer higher salaries and pensions to legislators than what MPs receive. Dhankhar also recommended revisiting subsidy structures. He believes subsidies should be direct and transparent, as practiced in developed countries, particularly in agriculture. He mentioned that in the U.S., direct subsidies help farmers earn more than average household incomes.