Congress designs ‘the eight fold path’ to recovery

Congress consultative committee has formulated key ideas for the revival of  economy amid lockdown

Congress Chief Sonia Gandhi had framed an 11 member committee for the task

Congress former chief Rahul Gandhi has asked the government to consider these ideas in the economic stimulus package

This is what Congress demands the government through eight major contours of the economy

1.   Income Support

Extend ‘Income Support’ to at least 13 crore poorest households. Transfer Rs.7,500 preferably to each household.

Even if Rs.5,000 is transferred to each of the 13 crore households, it will amount to a total of only Rs.65,000 crore, which we can and must afford.

2.   MGNREGA

100 days of guaranteed wage employment under MGNREGA should be doubled to 200 days to provide more relief and avenues to earn.

Close to 28-30% of our population now resides in urban areas. A MGNREGA like programme must be introduced in urban areas as well.

3.   Food Security

Ensure Food Security for even the 11 crore people currently outside PDS. Our godowns are full of grains.

Please ensure delivery of 10 kg food grains, 1 kg pulses and 1 kg sugar to every individual every month for a period of next six months.

4.   Agriculture & Farmers

Empower and support the ‘Anndaata’ farmer.

Transfer Rs.10,000 as Urgent Income Support to each of the 8.22 crore PM Kisan Yojana accounts.

Purchase every ounce of food grains at MSP. Remove GST on Fertilizers, Pesticides and Agricultural Equipment immediately.

5.   MSMEs

6.25 crore MSMEs generate over 11 crore jobs. Give 1 lakh crore ‘Wage Protection Scheme’ & 1 lakh crore ‘Credit Guarantee Scheme’ to MSMEs.

Give six months interest subsidy equal to six months of interest on loan taken by MSMEs.

6.   Large Industries

Similar credit guarantee up and interest subsidy facilities must be extended to big businesses as well

This will ensure the value chain continues to survive and no layoffs happen.

7.   Shopkeepers

Except for hotspots, retail supply chains should be restored. This will bring relief to around 7 crore shopkeepers all across India.

8.   Migrant Labour

Migrant labourers should be allowed to travel home according to their own free will.

Free bus and train services should immediately be provided to help migrants reach home soon

Congress designs 'the eight fold path' to recovery