India's Consumption Conundrum: Congress Calls for Economic Resurgence

The Congress accuses the Modi government of causing a 'demand crisis' due to stagnant incomes, derailing the growth engine of private investment and consumption. Congress proposes measures like raising MGNREGA wages and introducing income support schemes to boost rural consumption and economic growth.

The Congress party has flagged a pressing issue, claiming India is engulfed by a 'demand crisis' fueled by income stagnation under the Modi administration. The once-vibrant 'double engine' of growth, driven by private investment and mass consumption, has allegedly been derailed over the last decade.

Jairam Ramesh, Congress general secretary in-charge of communications, urged the government to adopt measures such as increasing MGNREGA wages, ensuring MSP for farmers, and implementing income support for women, aiming to rejuvenate income levels in rural India.

Citing recent data, Ramesh pointed out the extent of India's economic woes, with declining real wages and shrinking consumption power, particularly impacting the middle class, essential for boosting investment and long-term economic potential.

(With inputs from agencies.)