Prime Minister Narendra Modi says technology-driven welfare delivery has improved transparency, reduced leakages, and empowered millions across India
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the transformative impact of welfare initiatives launched over the past 12 years, stating that the government's efforts have focused on empowering the poor, ensuring social inclusion, and delivering benefits directly to beneficiaries through technology-driven governance.
Marking 12 years of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY) and the broader welfare-focused approach of his government, the Prime Minister said several flagship schemes have played a crucial role in improving the lives of millions of Indians, particularly those from economically weaker sections.
PM Modi Highlights 12 Years of Welfare Reforms
In a post shared on the social media platform X, Modi said the guiding principle behind the government's welfare initiatives has been the philosophy of "Antyodaya", ensuring that development reaches the poorest and most marginalised sections of society.
According to the Prime Minister, initiatives such as Jan Dhan accounts, Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), Swachh Bharat Mission, PM Awas Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission, and Ayushman Bharat were designed to provide both dignity and opportunity to citizens who had historically remained outside the mainstream of development.
"India has witnessed major transformations over the last 12 years, and the welfare of the poor and underprivileged has remained at the heart of these changes," PM Modi said.
The Prime Minister emphasised that these welfare programmes were intended not only to improve living standards but also to ensure equitable access to essential services and financial support.
Direct Benefit Transfer Reduced Leakages and Improved Efficiency
A key focus of Modi's remarks was the growing role of technology in strengthening welfare delivery systems. He noted that digital governance and Direct Benefit Transfer mechanisms have significantly improved transparency and accountability in government schemes.
According to the Prime Minister, funds and benefits are now reaching beneficiaries directly through digital platforms, reducing intermediary involvement and minimizing leakages.
"Through DBT and digital platforms, assistance is reaching people directly and transparently. This has reduced leakages, increased efficiency, and strengthened trust in governance," Modi stated.
He added that technology-enabled governance has helped transform welfare programmes into a broader movement aimed at human empowerment and nation-building.
Government Cites Sharp Decline in Rural Poverty
Data highlighted by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) suggests that rural poverty in India has witnessed a substantial decline over the past decade. According to official estimates, rural poverty levels have fallen from around 26 per cent in 2012 to below 5 per cent by 2024.
The government says millions of rural households have moved out of poverty during this period, making it one of the most significant socio-economic transitions in recent years.
Officials attribute this progress to targeted welfare schemes, improved financial inclusion, expanded social security coverage, and direct transfer of benefits to eligible citizens.
How Direct Benefit Transfer Transformed Welfare Delivery
The Direct Benefit Transfer system was introduced on January 1, 2013, as a major governance reform aimed at streamlining welfare delivery. The initiative leverages information and communication technology (ICT) to ensure that benefits reach eligible beneficiaries efficiently and without unnecessary delays.
Under the DBT framework, financial assistance is transferred directly to beneficiaries' bank or post office accounts, preferably linked with Aadhaar. The system also facilitates the distribution of welfare benefits in kind through digital tracking mechanisms.
The government maintains that the programme has helped curb fraud, improve transparency, accelerate fund transfers, and enhance accountability across various welfare schemes.
Welfare Schemes at the Centre of Viksit Bharat Vision
The Prime Minister said the continued expansion of welfare programmes forms an important component of the government's vision of a "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India). He noted that inclusive development, digital governance, and efficient welfare delivery will remain central to achieving long-term socio-economic growth.
As India continues its development journey, the government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening social welfare programmes and ensuring that the benefits of economic progress reach every section of society.
