Govt considers infrastructure push, direct cash transfers to boost demand

With the economy opening up again in the wake of the easing of lockdown curbs in most parts of the country, the Centre is discussing a number of measures to help boost demand. These include an infrastructure push, which may lead to a higher capital expenditure than budgeted for 2020-21, sources told Business Standard.

There are also discussions on increasing the scope and quantum of direct cash transfers to the beneficiaries who need it the most, two senior officials said.

“With activity picking up, the priority now is pushing demand. There are talks on infrastructure. Any boost there will help create jobs, which we need right now,” said one of the officials. “The National Infrastructure Pipeline is already in place, and that will serve as a starting point for our efforts.”