Pro-poor schemes gain focus as five states approach assembly polls

National parties have lined up farm loan waivers, income support schemes and the old pension scheme as they look to seize or retain power in key Assembly elections.

- Rhik Kundu

Five states-Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana, Chhattisgarh and Mizoramgo to Assembly polls in November and December.

In Madhya Pradesh, the opposition Congress party has promised farm loan waivers, the old pension scheme, free electricity up to 100 units, ₹1,500 to every woman per month, and gas cylinders at ₹500. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled state government has launched a 'Ladli Behena' scheme offering monthly income support of 1,000 to women in the 23-60 age group.

Rajasthan's ruling Congress government in July passed the Right to Minimum Guaranteed Income Bill, 2023, promising social security for citizens. The opposition BJP in August set up an election manifesto committee and election management committee.