In a bid to reclaim power in Haryana, the Congress party has rolled out a comprehensive manifesto filled with promises aimed at addressing the state’s key issues. Among the most significant proposals are ₹2,000 monthly assistance for women aged 18 to 60 years and the conduction of a statewide caste survey. The manifesto was unveiled during a special event held in Delhi, with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge leading the charge.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Kharge expressed confidence in the party’s ability to fulfill its promises. “We are making seven guarantees, and we will fulfill them. The full list of promises will be detailed in a 53-page manifesto to be released in Chandigarh,” he said.
Key Highlights of the Manifesto
- Women’s Empowerment and Social Welfare: One of the standout proposals is a ₹2,000 monthly financial assistance to women aged between 18 and 60. This initiative is aimed at boosting financial independence among women and providing crucial support to households across Haryana.
- Affordable Essentials: Addressing the rising cost of living, Congress has pledged to offer LPG cylinders at ₹500, a move that could significantly ease the burden on families. Additionally, the party has promised 300 units of free electricity per household.
- Support for the Elderly and Disabled: The Congress has also committed to providing ₹6,000 monthly pensions to the elderly, widows, and persons with disabilities. The Old Pension Scheme, which was previously phased out, will also be reinstated for government employees under the party’s plan.
- Housing for the Poor: In an effort to tackle the housing crisis, the party promises 100-yard plots for free to underprivileged families to build homes. For those who seek affordable housing, Congress has pledged to offer two-room homes at a subsidized rate of ₹3.5 lakh.
- Focus on Youth and Employment: Unemployment has been a critical issue in Haryana, and the Congress has made it a central focus in its manifesto. The party has promised to create 2 lakh jobs for the youth and work towards making the state addiction-free. This initiative is expected to attract significant support from the younger generation.
- Farmers’ Rights and Compensation: Farmers have been a crucial voter base in Haryana, and the Congress has assured a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops. Additionally, immediate compensation for crop damage has been promised, along with various other measures to improve the condition of agriculture in the state.
- Social Justice: To promote equity, the Congress has proposed raising the income limit for the creamy layer in the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category from ₹8 lakh to ₹10 lakh per year. This move is designed to expand access to social and economic benefits for more families.
- Caste Survey: The party has also committed to conducting a statewide caste survey if it comes to power. Such a survey would provide detailed data to help shape policies for marginalized communities and ensure that benefits reach those who need them most.
Promises for a Better Haryana
At the event, Haryana Congress chief Udai Bhan underscored the state’s achievements under previous Congress rule. He emphasized that Haryana led the nation in development during Congress’s tenure, excelling in employment, industrialization, agriculture, and sports.
“Haryana was number one in development when Congress was in power. We aim to make it number one again in employment, industry, sports, and law and order,” said Bhan. He criticized the current BJP-led government, claiming that crime has increased under their rule, and Haryana’s reputation has been tarnished.
A New Vision for Haryana
The manifesto highlights Congress’s determination to address the needs of various segments of society, including women, farmers, youth, and the underprivileged. By focusing on key areas like employment, electricity, LPG subsidies, and social justice, the party hopes to provide a viable alternative to the BJP-led government.
As the October 5 election date approaches, Congress’s promises are likely to shape the political discourse in Haryana. Whether these ambitious proposals will be enough to swing the electorate remains to be seen, but they have certainly generated buzz across the state.
Promises at a Glance:
- ₹2,000 monthly assistance for women (18-60 years)
- LPG cylinders at ₹500
- 300 units of free electricity
- ₹6,000 pension for the elderly, widows, and disabled
- 2 lakh jobs for the youth
- Addiction-free Haryana
- Legal guarantee for MSP and immediate crop damage compensation
- 100-yard free plots and affordable two-room homes at ₹3.5 lakh
- Statewide caste survey
- Raising creamy layer threshold for OBCs from ₹8 lakh to ₹10 lakh
With this robust manifesto, the Congress party is positioning itself as a strong contender in the Haryana election, promising a wave of changes if elected to power.
