Universal basic income: Definitely seductive, but is it fiscally feasible?

Under this welfare mechanism, all existing subsidies would give way to a single unconditional cash transfer to all citizens; but there are some nagging issues about its implementation

Following the drubbing in the recently concluded state assembly elections, there is intense speculation over what the Narendra Modi-led government might announce in order to sway the electorate in the upcoming general elections. 

Several possibilities, such as a farm loan waiver or an income transfer along the lines of Telangana’s Rythu Bandhu, are being talked about. Another possibility is that the government may announce a universal or quasi-universal basic income transfer.

Former chief economic advisor Arvind Subramanian, who had earlier elaborated on the concept in the economic survey, is reported to have said that universal basic income (UBI) is likely to find