Haryana Assembly Elections: Congress Releases Comprehensive Manifesto

In anticipation of the Haryana Assembly elections, the Congress party has released its manifesto, featuring key commitments such as 300 free electricity units for households, a caste-based census, a guarantee of Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, economic assistance for women, and the restoration of the old pension scheme. Additional priorities include free medical care, affordable housing for the underprivileged, and job creation. Haryana voters will head to the polls on October 5, with results announced on October 8.

Key Commitments: Free Electricity and Healthcare

The Congress manifesto pledges to provide 300 free electricity units to all households and free medical care up to ₹25 lakh per family. Additionally, women aged 18 to 60 will receive ₹2,000 monthly under a welfare scheme similar to those in other states, while gas cylinders will be subsidized by ₹500 each.

Farmer Welfare and MSP Assurance

Among the promises, the manifesto includes a legal commitment to MSP for crops, prompt crop compensation payments, and the establishment of farmers' councils. Farmers will also benefit from a diesel subsidy.

Housing and Employment Initiatives

The Congress plans to allocate 200-square-foot plots and two-room homes for the economically disadvantaged and create 200,000 permanent jobs for youth. Aiming for a drug-free Haryana, the party seeks to address substance abuse issues.

Reviving the Caste Census and Pension Scheme

A significant promise includes conducting a caste-based census and raising the creamy layer threshold to ₹10 lakh. The Congress is committed to opposing the Central government's plans while reinstating the old pension scheme (OPS).

Support for Marginalized Communities

Elderly citizens, disabled individuals, and widows will receive ₹6,000 through dedicated pension schemes. The party also plans to focus on establishing new universities and promoting the Punjabi language in the state.

Commitment to Social Justice and Safety

Congress leader Geeta Bhukkal emphasized the party's dedication to ensuring a "safe Haryana," announcing plans for a university in Kurukshetra named after Guru Gobind Singh Ji, along with another university in Mewat.

Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda noted that the manifesto was developed through comprehensive research, incorporating successful policies from Rajasthan and other Congress-ruled states.

Haryana will hold elections for its 90-member state assembly on October 5, with counting set for October 8. In the previous 2019 elections, the BJP secured 40 seats, while the Congress won 30.