Which Indian state announced that it would become the first state in India to introduce a Universal Basic Income (UBI) scheme?

Introduction / Context:
Universal Basic Income, often shortened to UBI, is a policy idea in which every citizen regularly receives a fixed income from the government with no conditions attached. It is discussed as a tool to reduce poverty and provide a safety net in modern economies. In India, one small Himalayan state drew national and international attention by announcing its intention to become the first state to implement such a scheme. This question checks whether you can associate that announcement with the correct state.

Given Data / Assumptions:

- The concept mentioned is Universal Basic Income, a direct cash transfer scheme.

- The options list five Indian states, including Sikkim and various southern and northeastern states.

- The question refers to an announcement of intent to introduce UBI, not to full nationwide implementation.

- It is assumed that you have followed major policy related current affairs.

Concept / Approach:
The key is to recall which Indian state government publicly declared that it aimed to roll out UBI for its residents. Around 2019, Sikkim made news by proposing to introduce a Universal Basic Income scheme and by including this idea in political party manifestos. This was widely reported as Sikkim aiming to be the first Indian state to implement UBI. Other states in the options have considered various welfare programs but did not make such a high profile UBI announcement at that time.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify that the question is about a policy experiment at the state level, not a proposal from the central government. Step 2: Recall media reports that described Sikkim as planning a large scale Universal Basic Income scheme for all its citizens. Step 3: Note that Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are known for several welfare schemes, but not for being the first to announce UBI for all residents. Step 4: Recognise that Manipur and Kerala have introduced various social security schemes, yet they were not highlighted as first movers on UBI for the entire state population. Step 5: Conclude that Sikkim is the state associated with the claim of being the first Indian state to introduce UBI.

Verification / Alternative Check:
To verify, remember that articles about UBI in India often mention Sikkim by name and describe it as planning a guaranteed income experiment. The small population and relatively high social indicators of Sikkim make it a candidate for piloting such policies. No similar sustained coverage exists about other listed states implementing full UBI, which confirms that Sikkim is the correct answer here.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Telangana has many welfare programmes but did not become famous for announcing a universal basic income scheme for all its citizens. Andhra Pradesh introduced schemes like direct income support for farmers, but these targeted programmes are not the same as a universal basic income for every resident. Manipur has not been central to national discussions on UBI implementation. Kerala has strong social welfare systems, but at the time described in standard exam material it was not promoted as the first state to implement UBI.

Common Pitfalls:
A common error is to confuse targeted welfare schemes with UBI. Many states provide cash transfers to specific groups such as farmers, women, or elderly citizens. UBI, however, is universal and unconditional for all citizens. Another pitfall is to assume larger states must be the first in any new policy because of their size and media presence. In this case, a small Himalayan state took the lead, so careful reading of current affairs sources is necessary.

Final Answer:
The state that announced it would be the first in India to introduce a Universal Basic Income scheme is Sikkim.