Economic Survey makes a strong case for Universal Basic Income

In 2016-17, UBI estimated at Rs 7,620 per person

The Economic Survey 2016-17 released on Tuesday makes a strong case for a universal basic income, in place of the current subsidy regime. “UBI is a powerful idea whose time, even if not ripe for implementation, is ripe for serious discussion,” it said. 

For 2016-17, the Survey estimates UBI at Rs 7,620 per year per person. This is the amount needed to lift the poor above the poverty line of Rs 893 per person per month computed by the Suresh Tendulkar committee. 

In 2011-12, the last year for which consumption data are available from national sample surveys, UBI works out