India’s Elections See Costly Campaign Gifts: Are They Sustainable?
In India, elections are increasingly influenced by cash, gifts, and other incentives. Candidates promise free electricity, laptops, transport, and even direct cash payments to women to attract voters. While these strategies may help win elections, they come at a high economic cost. Rising state debt, excessive subsidies, and reduced spending on infrastructure and job creation are creating long-term financial pressures. This trend raises questions about the sustainability of vote-for-cash politics in India.
