Kochi: The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) on Thursday unveiled its manifesto for the April 9 Kerala Assembly elections, promising a mix of welfare guarantees, economic reforms and social justice initiatives aimed at inclusive development.
The manifesto was released in Kochi by Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, who handed over the document to Congress leader V. D. Satheesan. It underscores that welfare pensions are a right, not charity, and pledges legislation to ensure pensions as a legal entitlement.
A key highlight is the “Indira Guarantees” announced by Rahul Gandhi. These include free bus travel for women, Rs 1,000 monthly assistance for college girls, Rs 3,000 social welfare pensions, health insurance coverage of up to Rs 25 lakh per family, and interest-free loans up to Rs 5 lakh for young entrepreneurs. The UDF has also proposed a dedicated department for senior citizens’ welfare.
Focusing on economic growth, the manifesto outlines initiatives such as Mission Samudra to transform Kerala into a port-led economy, expansion of the aviation sector, and the creation of 10,000 high-revenue enterprises. It also proposes a “Job Watch Tower” to monitor employment trends and a Tribal University in Wayanad.
To tackle poverty, the UDF promises the “Nava Ashraya” housing scheme, food security through Indira Canteens, and free ration for vulnerable sections. Youth empowerment will be promoted through “Yuvashree” groups, alongside targeted support for differently-abled individuals and transgender communities.
The document emphasises communal harmony, proposing a Ministry of Tolerance and a Social Harmony Department to curb political violence. In labour welfare, it promises fuel subsidies for transport and fishing sectors, and wage hikes for ASHA, Anganwadi, and school meal workers.
Healthcare measures include free dialysis for BPL patients, increased budget allocation, affordable treatment, and revival of schemes like the Karunya Fund. The manifesto also outlines reforms in education, agriculture, housing, tourism, and infrastructure, including metro expansion and a proposed high-speed rail corridor.