Missing populism in FM Sitharaman’s budget is declaration of victory in upcoming elections. Her proposition of social justice and secularism is a well-crafted political pitch to counter opposition’s main plank. It divorces socio-economic status and resource distribution from identity. Reliance on infrastructure record as potential vote-catcher is a significant positive.
Interim budget announced a committee to look into challenges emerging from “fast population growth”. A quick reality check here: India’s population growth is slowing and most developing nations are increasingly concerned about their contracting populations. Before analysis can start, India needs facts. The next Census cannot be delayed any longer.