Rs 2,000 for women, pension hike, free electricity: DMK's Tamil Nadu poll manifesto
Chief Minister MK Stalin announced a slate of welfare and development measures, including enhanced cash aid for women, higher pensions, expanded free electricity and laptops for students, as the DMK released its election manifesto.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president M K Stalin on Sunday unveiled the party’s manifesto for the April 23 Assembly elections, pitching a mix of expanded welfare schemes and economic growth measures while asserting that the state should continue on its current development path.
Speaking at the party headquarters in Chennai, Stalin said the DMK had delivered on its promises and would scale up existing schemes if re-elected, describing the manifesto as a “superstar”.
WELFARE PUSH FOR WOMEN, CHILDREN
Among the key announcements, the monthly assistance for women heads of families will be increased from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000, benefiting over 1.37 crore recipients. The elderly pension will also be raised to Rs 2,000.
The government’s breakfast scheme, currently covering students from Classes 1 to 5, will be expanded up to Class 8.
Women self-help groups will be eligible for interest-free loans of up to Rs 5 lakh, while benefits under the Chief Minister’s health insurance scheme will be increased to Rs 1 lakh.
HEALTH, HOUSING BOOST
The manifesto proposes expanding the Chief Minister’s health insurance scheme by increasing the annual income eligibility ceiling to Rs 5 lakh and raising the sum assured to Rs 10 lakh.
The party has also promised to construct 10 lakh new houses over the next five years. Dialysis facilities in government hospitals will be doubled.
FREE ELECTRICITY, LAPTOPS FOR STUDENTS
The manifesto promises continued free electricity support to over 20 lakh beneficiaries, along with provision of pump sets without meters.
In the education sector, laptops will be distributed to 35 lakh students pursuing higher studies. The number of dialysis units in government facilities will also be doubled.
NEW ‘ILLATHARASI’ COUPON SCHEME
In a fresh push targeting women voters, Stalin announced a one-time Rs 8,000 “Illatharasi” coupon scheme for women heads of families not in the income tax bracket. The coupon can be used to purchase or replace household appliances such as televisions, refrigerators, washing machines, mixer-grinders, microwave ovens and induction stoves.
“Illatharasi”, which translates to “queen of the house”, is aimed at easing household expenses, with the coupon redeemable at local shops.
JOBS, INVESTMENT IN FOCUS
Stalin said the party aims to attract investments worth Rs 18 lakh crore to boost the state’s economy, targeting a USD 120 billion economic size. Neo Tidel Parks will be set up to expand employment opportunities, particularly in the technology sector.
The Chief Minister said the DMK had not only fulfilled its electoral assurances but also implemented additional measures beyond its commitments. He accused political opponents of attempting to stall welfare schemes and undermine the state’s growth trajectory.
Stalin also thanked party leaders, including Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, who headed the manifesto committee, along with senior members for drafting the document. He said the people of Tamil Nadu wanted continuity in governance and development under the DMK.