Question 1 · 10 marks · 142 words written
What is a barbell strategy? How was it put to use to cushion the Covid blow on the Indian Economy?
Opening · a definition
Barbell strategy is a 2 pronged approach where the 1 leg focuses on risk hedging while the other leg actively takes up risk in agile manner.
This was mentioned by Eco survey 2021-22 as well. (I) Use of Risk Aversion (Hedging):
Body · points
ll consisting of a central rod and two circular weights on the ends
- Left weight is labelled: Risk cushioning
- Right weight is labelled: Agile realtime feedback to handle risk
- Label below diagram: Bar-Bell
(I) Use of Risk Aversion (Hedging):
Improved expenditure on health infra. 62% budget increase.
Protection to workers by government's contribution to Provident Fund.
Deferred applicability of Insolvency and Bankruptcy code (IBC).
PM-Garib Kalyan Yojana for social security benefits.
Agile Real time Risk Dealing
Iterative approach towards economy's lock down
- 1st wave - pan India
- 2nd wave - localised lockdown
Frequent policy updation to deal with economic crisis eg: Increased moratorium for critical infra projects.
Direct Tax cut down (a risky decision); monetory policy leasing.
Close · a summary
Thus, a combination ensured in a near V-shaped recovery with growth rate 12% (2020-21).