Title: Parliament Intensifies Push for Swift Implementation of Electronic Subsidy Scheme
Article:
In a significant parliamentary address, a senior Iranian legislator has underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to addressing the livelihood concerns of its citizens, placing economic welfare at the forefront of the national agenda.
Addressing the Nation’s Priorities
During a public session of the Islamic Consultative Assembly, Hamidreza Hajibabaei, the Deputy Speaker, affirmed that the well-being of the people is the primary focus of the Islamic Republic. He praised the nation’s enduring spirit and highlighted the continuous efforts by the government to ensure stable livelihoods for all citizens.
“The great nation of Iran, with divine grace, has been able to advance the Islamic Revolution and deserves worthy services,” Hajibabaei stated, emphasizing that the legislature is working diligently with the government to resolve economic challenges and enhance public satisfaction.
A Call for Expedited Action on Subsidies
The Deputy Speaker pointed to the substantial allocation of approximately $20 billion in subsidies for essential goods and medicine, questioning why disruptions should persist with such significant support. He issued a direct call to the Ministry of Cooperatives, Labour, and Social Welfare to expedite and clarify its program for the Electronic Voucher Scheme.
“The Ministry must exert all efforts to ensure the electronic vouchers reach the target communities. This is a firm emphasis from the Speaker of Parliament and all representatives,” Hajibabaei declared, referencing the parliament’s original mandate for the scheme passed in 2023.
Scheme Expansion and Current Status
Providing an update on the program’s progress, Marjan Dabiri, the official spokeswoman for the Electronic Voucher Scheme, announced the recent inclusion of aquatic products, such as fish and shrimp, to the list of twelve subsidized essential goods. Turkey and quail meat have also been added to the poultry category.
Dabiri confirmed that the utilization period for the fourth phase of the vouchers has been officially extended until the end of the Iranian month of Aban (November 21, 2024). This allows eligible families from the first to the seventh income deciles to use their existing credit.
As of the latest data, over 16 million household heads have already fully utilized their allocated credit from this phase. The non-cash subsidy amounts are set at 500,000 Tomans per person for the first to third deciles and 350,000 Tomans for the fourth to seventh deciles.
Looking Ahead: Phase Five and Strategic Goals
While initial speculation suggested a fifth phase might launch earlier, officials have confirmed that the next phase is now scheduled for the month of Azar (beginning November 22, 2024), pending final budget allocation and government approval.
The Electronic Voucher Scheme is a cornerstone of the government’s strategy to maintain the purchasing power of households and ensure the equitable distribution of subsidies. By providing credit specifically for essential goods, the system ensures that state support is directed precisely towards necessary consumption, preventing the misuse of funds.
Currently, over 230,000 stores across the country are connected to the network, allowing citizens freedom of choice among various brands. Economic experts highlight the scheme’s dual benefits: stabilizing prices for essential commodities and efficiently channeling state resources to the intended segments of society.