Daijiworld Media Network - Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram, Mar 7: Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, on Saturday unveiled five major welfare promises for Kerala, pledging broader social security measures and employment support if the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) returns to power in the state.
Speaking at the concluding event of a statewide yatra led by V D Satheesan, the Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, Gandhi said the proposals aim to strengthen economic stability for families and address growing unemployment among young people.
Among the key announcements was free bus travel for women in services operated by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). Gandhi also promised Rs 1,000 monthly financial support for college-going girl students and an increase in welfare pensions to Rs 3,000 per month.
He further proposed a comprehensive health insurance programme providing coverage of up to Rs 25 lac per household, which would be named after former Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.
To promote entrepreneurship among young people, Gandhi announced a loan facility of up to Rs 5 lac for youth to start businesses. Another proposal includes setting up a dedicated ministry for senior citizens to address their welfare needs.
Gandhi said that if elected, a UDF government would focus on boosting employment by supporting small and medium enterprises and creating opportunities that could encourage young Keralites working abroad to return to the state.
He also criticised the ruling Communist Party of India (Marxist) government led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, alleging that the Left and the Bharatiya Janata Party were indirectly cooperating in the state’s political landscape.
Questioning the role of central agencies such as the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation, Gandhi asked why they had acted against opposition leaders but not against the Kerala Chief Minister despite allegations raised against him.
Reflecting on his relationship with the state, Gandhi said Kerala had supported him during difficult periods. He emphasised his commitment to the people of the state and urged leaders of the UDF alliance to remain united to bring about political change.
“Kerala stood by me in my toughest moments. I will always stand with the people of this state,” he said, calling on alliance leaders to work together for the future of Kerala.