Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Mar 21: The ruling Congress is relying on votes from beneficiaries of its five guarantees to counter the BJP's 'Modi Ki Guarantee'. A recent government survey found that beneficiaries, especially women, are effectively using the money received from schemes like Gruha Lakshmi. The survey, conducted by over 1.14 lac volunteers, covered 5.10 crore beneficiaries of various schemes including Gruha Jyoti, Anna Bhagya, Shakti, and Yuva Nidhi.

According to the survey, nearly nine out of ten women are using the money received under the Gruha Lakshmi scheme for their own expenses, while also investing in self-help groups or saving in banks. Free bus travel under Shakti is being utilized by many women for various purposes, and free electricity under Gruha Jyoti is leading to savings for a significant number of beneficiaries.

Additionally, the survey reveals that many Anna Bhagya beneficiaries prefer receiving essential food items instead of cash, indicating the insufficiency of the cash amount provided. Feedback from Yuva Nidhi beneficiaries indicates that the unemployment allowance is being used for exam fees, family expenses, and savings.

To promote the guarantees, the government has organized numerous beneficiary conventions across districts. However, converting beneficiary satisfaction into votes remains a challenge for the Congress. While the guarantees may help reduce the erosion of Congress votes in Lok Sabha polls, political analysts suggest that it won't be an easy task.

Meanwhile, the BJP has criticized the Congress' schemes, highlighting the lack of development works in the state over the past 10 months.