CHENNAI: With the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections drawing closer, the ruling DMK and the opposition AIADMK have released comprehensive election manifestos, packed with welfare-oriented promises aimed at key voter groups, particularly women, farmers, and low-income households.
The DMK, which had made 505 promises in the 2021 elections, has expanded its commitments to 525 assurances this time. In comparison, the AIADMK, seeking a return to power, has announced 297 promises, focusing on a mix of welfare schemes and targeted subsidies.
A major highlight of both manifestos is the emphasis on women-centric schemes.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced that homemakers from non-income tax-paying families would receive Rs 8, 000 coupons to purchase or replace essential household appliances. The DMK has also promised to double the monthly financial assistance for women from Rs 1, 000 to Rs 2, 000.
Meanwhile, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami has pledged that free refrigerators will be provided to ration card holders if the party forms the government. Additionally, under the ‘Kula Vilakku’ scheme, the AIADMK has proposed a Rs 2, 000 subsidy for all family card holders, positioning it as a direct benefit to households across the state.