Beijing, Mar 12: China’s plan to slightly increase pensions for rural residents has triggered rare criticism from lawmakers during the country’s biggest annual political gathering, with some representatives calling the proposed rise inadequate for farmers and rural elderly.
During the week-long legislative meeting in Beijing, the Chinese government outlined major policy priorities, including increasing military spending, strengthening its manufacturing sector and expanding its push to lead in artificial intelligence.
However, the government’s proposal to raise the minimum basic pension for rural residents by 20 yuan (less than USD 3) per month has drawn attention for its modest scale.If implemented, the increase would raise the monthly pension for rural residents to roughly 170 yuan (about USD 24), a figure some lawmakers say does little to address the financial struggles of elderly farmers.
Guo Fenglian, a representative and village leader who was once recognised by former Chinese leader Mao Zedong as a model worker, publicly questioned the move during the legislative session.“This is just too unfair to farmers,” Guo told reporters while speaking on the sidelines of the meeting.
China’s annual parliamentary session, often referred to as the “Two Sessions”, typically sees lawmakers endorsing government policies with limited public dissent. Observers say open criticism during the gathering is relatively uncommon.
The debate highlights broader concerns about inequality between urban and rural populations in China, where social welfare benefits and pensions are generally far lower in rural areas compared to cities.
Analysts say the discussion reflects growing attention within China to the challenges faced by ageing rural populations and the need for stronger social safety nets.The meeting concluded on Thursday after setting the government’s policy agenda and economic priorities for the coming year.
