Title: Iran Unveils Comprehensive Economic Support Plan Targeting 70% of Households
Vice President Outlines New Subsidy Reform and Development Strategy
In a significant address during his provincial visit to Ardabil, Iran’s Vice President, Masoud Pezeshkian, detailed a major new economic support initiative designed to encompass approximately 70% of the nation’s households. The plan centers on a fundamental restructuring of the country’s subsidy system to ensure aid is directed to those most in need.
Refocusing Subsidies for Greater Equity
Speaking on Thursday evening, Vice President Pezeshkian stated that the new “subsistence coupon” program is being calibrated to ensure the seven lower deciles of society can benefit from it. He highlighted a key issue with the current subsidy model, noting that financial support is sometimes allocated to individuals who do not genuinely require it.
“We can recoup the real cost of goods from higher-income deciles that do not require state support,” Pezeshkian explained. “The resulting resources can then be reallocated in the form of these commodity coupons to other citizens.” This targeted approach is presented as a cornerstone of the government’s strategy to strengthen social justice and ensure no family struggles to meet its basic needs due to low income.
A Holistic Approach to National Challenges
The Vice President also addressed broader infrastructure concerns, acknowledging current challenges in the provision of water, electricity, gas, and fuel. He expressed confidence that through public cooperation and the leadership of the nation’s elites, these issues can be effectively managed and resolved.
Beyond immediate economic relief, Pezeshkian emphasized the critical long-term role of education and culture. He argued that a properly designed educational system, from kindergarten through university, is essential for developing Iran’s valuable human resources, which in turn reduces poverty, ignorance, and corruption. He called for schools to be equipped not only with material resources but also with capable teachers and practical training to foster positive behavioral and attitudinal change.
Pezezskian further pointed to the role of mosques and cultural centers as pivotal community hubs for service delivery, affirming the government’s readiness to offer its full support in this endeavor.
Major Investment for Regional Development
Outlining a vision for sustained growth, the Vice President announced substantial investment plans for Ardabil Province, forecasting nearly 80 trillion tomans in capital allocated to various sectors including energy, healthcare, transportation, and agricultural greenhouses. These projects are intended to address immediate livelihood concerns while simultaneously creating new employment opportunities and driving regional development.
A Collaborative Path Forward
Concluding his remarks, Vice President Pezeshkian underscored that the government’s planning is fundamentally based on public participation and cooperation with provincial officials. He stated that through prudent resource management and necessary support, the path toward sustainable development, social welfare, and the progress of all provinces can be secured.
