To Get the Economy Purring Again

The Economic Times     27th October 2020     Save    

Context: Covid-19 has taught not to make five-year plans any more, owing to the sheer uncertainty of nature.

Steps to Revive the Economy:

  • Communication is the Key: Government's communication to the farmers in regards to the farmer's bill was not up to the mark.
  • Government's messaging should focus on India as an essential link in the global food supply chain through improved productivity and better farm practices.
  • Must create a cell of professionals responsible for effective communication.
  • Increase Consumer Demand: 
  • Incentivize spending through stimulus package: Tax reduction and tax benefits for expenditure on products such as cars, housing, white goods, and travel should be introduced.
  • Expenditure on Infrastructure: It will create more jobs, while the increase in fiscal deficit can be reversed in the coming years when the economy takes off.
  • Preserving nature: Environment is the 'mother' of the economy, not vice versa. Cutting trees has an immediate impact and replanting takes 10-15 years to bear fruit. Similar is the situation of water.
  • Strict adherence with environmental laws is needed for effective preservation.

Conclusion: India must follow the Japanese model of repeating till what is desired becomes a habit. For the average citizen, we must raise the problem to offer solutions as well, supporting both state and central governments in this endeavour.