Every election season, welfare schemes take centrestage. Some call them essential for reducing inequality, while others dismiss them as unsustainable freebies. But in a country like India, what place do they have? 

In this week's Let Me Explain, Pooja Prasanna breaks down the impact of welfare programmes – mid-day meals, free bus rides, cash transfers, and more. Do they empower people or push states into financial distress? And is the BJP’s stance on “revdi culture” as firm as it claims?

We have a new Sena project that explores attempts in India to establish a ‘Hindu state’. Our reporters are heading to Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, and your contribution can help them on their way. Click here to contribute to The Hindu Rashtra Project.