Rs 3000 unemployment allowance, 200 units free electricity in Congress’ manifesto for Odisha elections

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha unit of the Congress unveiled its manifesto today, offering nine “guarantees” to the people of the state ahead of the assembly elections.

The manifesto was launched in the presence of Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) President Sarat Patnaik, party’s state in-charge Ajoy Kumar, and other leaders at a press conference here.

In its manifesto, the Congress pledged to provide bonus along with Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs 3000 per quintal for paddy. Additionally, the party promised to waive agricultural loans and offer a monthly pension of Rs 2000 for farmers.

The manifesto also includes provisions for providing 200 units of free electricity for domestic consumers in the state. The Congress further pledged to generate employment opportunities for approximately 5 lakh youths and provide an unemployment allowance of Rs 3000 per month.

Other promises in the manifesto include loan waivers for women Self Help Groups, a monthly allowance of Rs 2000 for female heads of households under the Gruhalaxmi scheme and providing LPG cylinders to every family at Rs 500.

Furthermore, the Congress guaranteed free healthcare services of up to Rs 25 lakh in government and private hospitals for both government employees and other citizens. The party also committed to provide monthly allowances of Rs 2000 for old-age, widow, and differently-abled individuals.

Lastly, the manifesto included a promise of 27 percent reservation for backward classes in educational institutions and service sector.