Wed Jan 29 08:34:43 UTC 2025: **Congress Unveils Delhi Manifesto, Promises Caste Census and Generous Welfare Schemes**
NEW DELHI (The Hindu) – With Delhi Assembly elections just days away, the Congress party launched its election manifesto on January 29, 2025. The manifesto outlines a range of ambitious promises, including a caste census, a dedicated Ministry for Purvanchalis (people from eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar), and substantial financial aid for women and the unemployed.
Key pledges include a monthly ₹2,500 grant for women, free electricity up to 300 units, and LPG cylinders priced at ₹500. The party also promised free health insurance up to ₹25 lakh and free ration kits. Further proposals include ₹8,500 monthly financial assistance for one year to educated unemployed youth and the establishment of 100 Indira canteens offering meals at ₹5.
The manifesto, encompassing 22 focus areas, was unveiled by Delhi Congress president Devender Yadav and Congress communications incharge Jairam Ramesh. Ramesh criticized both the BJP-led central government and the AAP-led Delhi government for their failure to address the city’s pollution crisis.
The Delhi Assembly elections are scheduled for February 5, with results to be announced on February 8. This election will be a significant test for Congress, which lost power to AAP in 2013. The manifesto represents a clear attempt to woo voters with a comprehensive package of social welfare initiatives.
First Piper 