Economy

Budget 2022-2023 evokes conflicted sentiments. IFF attempts to analyse the highs and lows of the Union Budget, with a special focus on DoT, MeitY and MIB.

Recently, the PM launched the E-Rupi voucher programme. Given that these vouchers are supposed to transform the digital payments system and assist in vaccine delivery, we thought we’d create an explainer on the scheme. This is our attempt at helping people understanding the programme.

We explain why the Aadhaar Good Governances Rules are unconstitutional as they exceed the limits of the Aadhaar Act, violate the Puttaswamy judgement and proportionality test, and are vague and non-voluntary. We have petitioned the Committees on Subordinate Legislation to review the Rules.

Budget 2021-22 is a mixed bag. Though it contains praiseworthy allocations towards programs such as Digital India and the USOF and provides a stimulus to R&D, allocations towards the PMGDISHA remain low, while concerns remain that signficant capital expenditure may not take place.

While the emphasis laid on improving access and equity is commendable, there are certain concerns that the Economic Survey must address. These include questions raised about the commercialisation of healthcare and the viability of remote learning, as well as the overarching data paradigm.