India, a country pulsing with the potential for economic power, wavers under the weight of poverty.

• India debates whether or not to implement a new food distribution system that will give out food coupons and cash to citizens.
• The plan is part of a movement that aims to gives every citizen a constitutional right to food.
• The new food distribution system will allow every Indian family a monthly 77-pound bag of grain, sugar and kerosene.
• Though it is possible that issuing food coupons will greatly improve poverty in India, many are concerned that the new freedom of choice it allows recipients will encourage corruption.

Facts & Figures

• 42% of all Indian children under the age of 5 are underweight.
• 70% of the $12 billion food budget is wasted, stolen or absorbed by bureaucratic and transportation costs.

Best Quote

“The question is whether there is a role for the market in the delivery of social programs. This is a big issue: Can you harness the market?” – Bharat Ramaswami, Rural Economist, Indian Statistical Institute.