Q.What is meant by Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)? Why has it become central to Andhra Pradesh's welfare schemes, and why should a student describe such schemes by their purpose rather than by their exact amounts?

The way the state now delivers welfare — cash straight to the beneficiary — matters more, and lasts longer as knowledge, than any single scheme's rupee figure.

Meaning of DBT. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) is a method of delivering government assistance as cash paid directly into the beneficiary's (usually Aadhaar-linked) bank account, instead of through subsidised goods or intermediaries.

Why it is central to Andhra Pradesh's welfare policy.

1. It reduces leakages and middlemen. By paying the beneficiary directly, DBT cuts out intermediaries who could divert benefits, so more of the money reaches the intended person.
2. It gives beneficiaries choice. Cash lets a household spend the assistance where it is most needed, rather than being tied to a specific subsidised good.
3. It suits a state with a large low-income, agrarian population. Andhra Pradesh has used DBT extensively to channel support to categories such as farmers (income support), mothers of school-going children (education support), and households (e.g. cooking-gas support), as well as pensions for vulnerable groups. …

Describing DBT as subsidised goods rather than direct cash; quoting a specific scheme's amount as if it were permanent; not explaining why …