Like the UPA-II, the NDA-II believes that Aadhaar can transform welfare delivery. Several media reports and studies have highlighted how mandatory Aadhaar has prevented genuine beneficiaries accessing important welfare programmes, including the PDS. For instance, in Andhra Pradesh only 55% of beneficiaries preferred Aadhaar authentication in the PDS, while in Rajasthan the figure was 67%. One reason for the lukewarm response to cash transfers could be the lack of faith in the government delivering the cash. Implementing welfare schemes is difficult in India and implementing cash transfers can be particularly challenging.

Source: Mint April 21, 2019 18:00 UTC