Guwahati: Sikkim in recent times has been able to mark its stand as one of the most well-planned and eco-friendly states in the entire nation. Right from winning recognition for its eco-friendly atmosphere to opting for organic farming methods and winning awards, Sikkim is turning the heads through its one-of-a-kind moves. Now, the Sikkim CM announces that the state is going to be the first to roll out Universal Basic Income (UBI).
The ruling party in the state, Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) has taken up several schemes to enhance the economic, social and tourism sector. Apart from starting the Universal Basic Income (UBI), SDF has also initiated the process introducing the unconditional direct cash transfer scheme. Other than implementing these new provisions for the state, the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) also plans to include UBI in its manifesto ahead of the Assembly election in 2019 as this will add more strength to their election campaign and winning favour of the Sikkim citizens. As stated by Chief Minister Pawan Chamling, they aim to implement the scheme by 2022.
As per a 2017 Economic Survey, the UBI scheme was termed as “a conceptually appealing idea”. This scheme was also being regarded as a possible alternative to social welfare programmes with benefits towards reducing poverty.
Sikkim Democratic Front MP in the Lok Sabha, Prem Das Rai said: “Our party and Chief Minister Pawan Chamling, who is the longest serving Chief Minister, are committed to bringing in Universal Basic Income. This, we will do three years of coming back to power in the state.”
Speaking about the scheme, he further added that a number of economists have talked about the UBI scheme that it works well in developing countries. This same scheme has been tested even in India. The UBI has been tried in Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and tribal belts as well and the results are fairly good.
The UBI basically is an income given to families irrespective what do they do. Convening it in Sikkim would mean releasing it for everyone and every household will get an income irrespective of their profession.