PM keeps the populist note going

In his address, Narendra Modi gave out the promised 'gains' after 50 days of demonetisation 'pain'

In an address to the nation on New Year’s Eve, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a series of populist measures — a mini Budget of sorts, 31 days ahead of the Union Budget.

With the expiry of 50 days of “pain” — following his November 8 announcement to demonetise the old series Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes — he was expected to announce a series of “gains”, as he had promised. His 30-minute speech, first in Hindi and then English, announced schemes for the poor and lower-middle classes, farmers, pregnant women, senior citizens and small entrepreneurs.

He, however, did