Sustenance money has become a hot topic of debate in India after entrepreneur Shantanu Deshpande remarked that “99% of Indians wouldn’t work if they received sustenance money and financial security.” His statement has sparked widespread discussion about the motivations behind work and whether financial stability could lead to a withdrawal from the workforce. While some agree with his perspective, others see it as an oversimplification of a complex issue.
What Is Sustenance Money?
Sustenance money refers to a guaranteed income provided to individuals to cover their basic living expenses, such as food, shelter, and healthcare. This idea is often associated with Universal Basic Income (UBI), a concept where governments provide regular financial support to citizens regardless of employment status. Proponents of UBI argue that it reduces poverty and financial stress, while critics fear it may discourage productivity and increase dependency.
In the Indian context, where socio-economic inequality is significant, the idea of sustenance money raises important questions about the role of work in people’s lives. If individuals no longer need to work for survival, would they still choose to contribute to the economy?
The Debate Sparked By Shantanu Deshpande
Shantanu Deshpande’s assertion that 99% of Indians would quit their jobs if they had sustenance money has divided opinions. He believes that work, for most people, is a compulsion driven by financial necessity rather than passion or purpose. According to him, financial security would lead the majority to prioritize leisure over labor, fundamentally altering the dynamics of the workforce.
His comment highlights a prevalent issue in India’s work culture: job dissatisfaction. Many workers endure monotonous roles or high-pressure environments, often lacking opportunities for growth or fulfillment. This dissatisfaction fuels the notion that financial independence could liberate people from unfulfilling jobs.
Historical Context Of Work And Income
The concept of work as a duty or obligation has deep roots in Indian society. Traditionally, employment was not only a means of earning but also a source of identity and social status. In rural India, agricultural labor was a family responsibility, while urbanization introduced salaried jobs that became symbols of success and stability.
However, the industrial revolution and subsequent economic shifts redefined the relationship between work and income globally. The introduction of welfare systems in some countries provided a safety net for those unable to work, paving the way for ideas like UBI. India, with its large population and diverse economic landscape, has yet to explore such systems comprehensively.
The Role Of Sustenance Money In Modern Society
Advocates of sustenance money argue that it can empower individuals to pursue meaningful work rather than being trapped in jobs they dislike. By removing the stress of financial insecurity, it could lead to greater innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship. Studies from UBI experiments in Finland, Canada, and other countries have shown that recipients often use the financial support to upskill, start businesses, or engage in community work.
On the other hand, critics fear that sustenance money might reduce motivation, especially in economies like India where informal and unorganized sectors dominate. They argue that it could increase dependency on government support and strain public finances.
Why Do People Work?
Understanding the motivations behind work is essential to this debate. While financial necessity is a significant factor, other motivators include:
- Purpose And Passion: Many people work to contribute to society or pursue careers they are passionate about. Artists, teachers, and healthcare workers are examples of individuals driven by purpose rather than profit.
- Social Interaction: Work environments provide opportunities for collaboration, networking, and friendships, which are vital for mental health and personal growth.
- Identity And Recognition: Employment often gives individuals a sense of identity and accomplishment, boosting their self-esteem.
Would 99% Really Quit Work?
Deshpande’s claim that 99% of Indians would quit work with sustenance money might be an exaggeration. Global evidence suggests that while financial security can reduce the compulsion to work, it does not eliminate the desire for purpose and engagement. Many individuals would continue to work, either part-time or in roles aligned with their interests.
In India, where unemployment is a pressing issue, sustenance money could provide a safety net for those struggling to find jobs. It might also encourage individuals to take risks, such as starting businesses or pursuing unconventional careers.
Challenges Of Implementing Sustenance Money In India
Implementing sustenance money in a country as large and diverse as India would be a monumental task. Key challenges include:
- Financial Constraints: India’s fiscal budget is already stretched with subsidies and welfare schemes. Introducing sustenance money would require significant resources.
- Targeting The Right Beneficiaries: Ensuring that sustenance money reaches those who need it most, without creating loopholes for misuse, would be a logistical challenge.
- Cultural Attitudes Toward Work: Changing deeply ingrained notions of work as a duty would require a cultural shift, which could take decades.
The Future Of Work And Sustenance Money
The rise of automation and artificial intelligence is already reshaping industries, making some jobs obsolete while creating new opportunities. In this context, sustenance money could serve as a buffer for workers transitioning between roles or acquiring new skills. It could also address income inequality by redistributing wealth more equitably.
India’s growing gig economy and startup culture reflect a shift toward flexibility and innovation in employment. Sustenance money could complement these trends by providing a stable foundation for risk-taking and experimentation.
A Path Toward Change
The debate around sustenance money is not just about quitting jobs but about reimagining work itself. It challenges traditional ideas of labor, productivity, and success, urging society to prioritize well-being and fulfillment. While financial security might reduce the need for menial jobs, it could also open doors to creativity, learning, and social contribution.
For India, exploring sustenance money would require balancing economic feasibility with social impact. By fostering inclusive discussions and learning from global experiments, the country can take steps toward a more equitable and dynamic workforce.