Fronts announce similar promises ahead of polls; Rs 3000 pension promised by all three

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With just seven days left for voters to reach polling booths, political fronts have intensified their campaigns with a wave of promises aimed at securing votes. A notable feature is that many of these promises are similar across the three major fronts. With the release of their manifestos, leaders are now focusing on convincing voters that they will fulfil these commitments, rather than engaging in controversies.

The welfare pension, which was crucial in helping the Left government retain power, has emerged as a key highlight in the election promises. All three fronts have announced that the pension will be increased to Rs 3,000. The LDF released its manifesto in Kozhikode, while the UDF unveiled its in Kochi. The NDA had already announced its promises earlier.

A unique promise from the NDA is a food and health card with a monthly recharge of Rs 2,500 for women from households below the poverty line. While the UDF has promised free travel for women in KSRTC buses, the LDF has assured the eradication of absolute poverty in the state.

All three fronts have given importance to education, healthcare, infrastructure development, employment, and women’s welfare. The UDF has promised to increase the daily wage of ASHA workers to Rs 700. Metro rail services in Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram have been promised by both the LDF and UDF.

Both the LDF and UDF have promised to raise the price of rubber to Rs 300. The LDF has stated that the support price for paddy will be increased to Rs 35, while the UDF has promised a procurement price of Rs 35.

Sabarimala issue
Sabarimala has emerged as another key issue in the election. While the UDF and NDA have focused on the gold theft issue, the LDF has emphasised development at Sabarimala. The UDF has promised strict punishment for all accused in the gold theft case, while the NDA has assured a time-bound CBI investigation. The LDF has pledged to complete the Sabarimala master plan and implement the “Clean Pampa” project.

Education
LDF: Campus placements for all students completing their studies
UDF: Monthly financial assistance of Rs 1,000 for female college students
NDA: Optional English-medium education in government schools

Healthcare
LDF: Removal of the Rs 5 lakh limit under the Karunya treatment scheme, making it unlimited
UDF: Free health insurance coverage up to Rs 25 lakh for all families
NDA: Universal access to the Ayushman Bharat scheme and establishment of AIIMS