Title: Minister Meydari Calls for Parliamentary Collaboration on Subsidy Reform
In a significant address to parliament, Iran’s Minister of Welfare, Ahmad Meydari, outlined the government’s approach to the nation’s subsidy system, sparking a substantive debate on economic policy.
A Call for Legislative Partnership
Minister Meydari directly appealed to the legislative body, stating, “The parliament should help so that anyone, based on their income level, can be removed from the subsidy list.” This statement underscores the administration’s focus on creating a more targeted and efficient social safety net by redirecting resources to those most in need.
Protecting Vulnerable Groups
A key point of the minister’s address was a firm reassurance regarding the protection of specific societal groups. He explicitly confirmed, “We have not removed the subsidies for our veterans and individuals with disabilities.” This clarification aims to address public concerns and highlight the government’s commitment to shielding its most vulnerable citizens from the potential impacts of economic reforms.
Defining Income Brackets
To provide transparency, Minister Meydari offered concrete figures to illustrate how income and housing status determine eligibility. He explained that a three-person family who owns their home would enter the eighth income decile with an earnings threshold of approximately 30 million Tomans. For a similar family that rents their home, the threshold is higher, at around 42 million Tomans, acknowledging the additional financial burden of housing costs.
The minister’s detailed remarks have set the stage for further discussion between the government and parliament on optimizing the country’s welfare expenditures.
