India’s Cash Transfer Revolution: Scale, Gaps And Shift

India is witnessing a major transformation in how welfare is delivered — shifting from subsidies to unconditional cash transfers (UCTs). A new report by Project DEEP traces this evolution, highlighting that over Rs 2.8 lakh crore has been allocated to UCTs in 2024–25, across 70+ schemes. Over half of this funding now targets women. But while some schemes offer meaningful support, others fall short. The report urges a rationalised approach guided by frequency, adequacy, and timing. This explainer dives into the numbers, the policy journey, and why UCTs are becoming central to India's social protection narrative, not just as safety nets, but enablers.