“Hidden cost of populism: A double-edged sword for economy and society”, First Post, September 7, 2023:

“Perhaps our political masters refuse to realise the wisdom of the adage that the road to hell is paved with good intentions. Or, and that’s more probable, they find wisdom unnecessary baggage in a sphere in which expedience overrides every other consideration — politics.

The implementation of its populist promises after winning the Karnataka Assembly elections by the Congress has not only burdened the state exchequer with around Rs 50,000 crore and doubled the state fiscal deficit but also reportedly played havoc with coffee plantations.

These are early signs of the damage occasioned by populism. Sadly, the damage is not restricted to one party and state; all parties are indulging in it. Worse, it is not only the economy but also society and culture that would suffer from the adverse effects of competitive populism…..”

Read the full article at Firstpost.com