In the bustling lanes of Delhi, where the scorching heat mingles with the relentless activity of the city, political banners and party flags signal the upcoming Phase 6 of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.
Weeks before the clamour of political rallies that have now taken over the news cycle, the first signs of election campaigns in the capital became common sightings of posters promoting government schemes with larger-than-life profiles of the politicians beside them – on auto-rickshaws.
These advertisements in transit navigate the city's crowded streets, spreading awareness about initiatives taken by each political front.
However, the auto drivers themselves present a mixed picture about the schemes they promote on their vehicles.
Some express optimism, noting how certain schemes have tangibly benefited their daily lives, providing them with financial support, healthcare, or education for their children. Others remain skeptical, saying that while the schemes may paint a rosy picture, the impact on their own circumstances has been minimal. Some even shrugged off our questions with indifference.
Such is the contrast in perspectives among the drivers that it highlights the complex relationship between government efforts and the everyday realities of those tasked with promoting them.
Affordable Healthcare or Not?
"My wife has a sugar problem and regularly requires medicines. Because of the janaushadhi scheme, life has become much easier for us," 42-year-old Manoj Kumar beamed on being asked about the scheme's advertisement on the back of his auto-rickshaw.
Launched in 2008 during the Manmohan Singh-led UPA-II government, the Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) scheme was relaunched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015 to provide generic medicines at affordable prices in dedicated centres.
"Although the medicines are generic in nature, they come at a highly subsidised rate, say 50-60 percent ... the concession varies," said Kumar, who has been driving an auto-rickshaw in Delhi for the last 16 years.
"Let's say I get medicines worth Rs 180 from outside. The same I can get for just Rs 55. The scheme is that effective," he added.
As per the ministry's official website, 10,607 centres or janaushadhi kendras are currently functional across India. Additionally, the PMBJP scheme is an umbrella provider of about 1,965 drugs and 293 surgical items.