Fiscal reform: J-PAL’s Dhaliwal urges states to fix finances for faster poverty reduction; calls for scheme rationalisation and focus on human capital

Iqbal Singh Dhaliwal of J-PAL urges states to strengthen finances for poverty reduction, highlighting excessive welfare schemes and unproductive fund use. He advocates investing in human capital like schools and health centers over cash, while warning of AI-induced job losses in India that necessitate urgent upskilling.