In India, political leaders are adopting direct cash transfer schemes as a significant electoral strategy, particularly highlighted during the recent elections in Bihar. These schemes, which involve sending a specified sum directly to people's bank accounts, have gained prominence as effective means to influence voters. The political scramble among various Chief Ministers to implement such cash benefits reflects an ongoing trend, especially following the Bihar elections, which set a precedent for utilizing government schemes to garner electoral support.

The Bihar elections saw significant controversy around these cash transfers, notably involving Prashant Kishor of the Jan Suraj Party, who sought the Supreme Court's intervention regarding the distribution of funds to women pre-elections. Although the Supreme Court dismissed his plea, the incident underlines the contentious nature of financial incentives in politics. The Supreme Court's response indicated a legal and bureaucratic sidestep that politicians might face when implementing such cash distribution initiatives.

Furthermore, the direct cash transfer scheme's effectiveness has been evident across several Indian states, from Madhya Pradesh to Maharashtra, indicating a broader trend in electoral campaigning. Even in Delhi, where the BJP was not in power, the party seemed to benefit from these schemes. Political leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal from the Aam Aadmi Party, argued the potential risks of such cash transfers, warning voters that BJP's victory might undermine ongoing schemes. Yet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assurances fostered a sense of trust in the BJP, showcasing the complex dynamics of trust, incentive, and voter behavior in the context of Indian electoral politics.