Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024: BJP promises 25 lakh jobs, relief to farmers and women's empowerment in its big manifesto
MUMBAI (AP) — Ahead of Maharashtra's 2024 assembly elections, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday released the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) manifesto with promises of wide-ranging reforms as well as focus on key sectors like farmers, women and youth. The manifesto, described by Shah as a "resolution document" addressing the aspirations of Maharashtra, also promises the welfare of the poor, respect for farmers, and empowerment for women.
While releasing the manifesto, Shah called it a roadmap for a developed Maharashtra. "This manifesto is a reflection of the hopes and dreams of the people of Maharashtra. It guarantees respect for farmers, empowerment of women, and economic growth for all sections of society," Shah said, referring to the party's vision for the state's future. Shah dismissed opposition policies, claiming Maha Vikas Aghadi government plans were shallow and politically motivated.
Prime Promises in BJP's Manifesto
Loan Write off for the farmers: The BJP promises to clear loan arrears of the farmers, which happens to be one of the state's biggest agricultural debt issues.
25 Lakh Jobs for Youth: The BJP has promised to create 25 lakh fresh jobs in the next five years in a bid to enhance employment opportunities for youth.
Laadli Scheme: The young women will receive ₹2,100 per month and ₹10,000 a month to the students.
Skill Development: Propose the skill centers for youngsters with the employment readiness with technology and industries.
Economic Benefits for Women and Minorities: BJP vows to provide interest-free loans of ₹15 lakh to SC/ST/OBC communities along with other women-centered policies by creating 50 lakh "Lakhpati Didis".
Agriculture-oriented: A MSP of ₹6,000 will be provided to the soybean farmer along with "Bhavantar Yojana" to protect farmer's income.
Retirement and Welfare Benefits: The old age pension would go up from the current ₹1,500 to ₹2,100. In addition to that, welfare schemes would also get additional support.
Opposition Criticism
The MVA government, according to Shah, had not taken note of the state's progress and was engaged in mimicking a few individuals who believe in benefiting only a few. Taking a dig at some of the senior leaders, including Sharad Pawar, he said their promises have not come true in the form of effective results for the development of Maharashtra.
"The promises of MVA are far from reality. Each time their government has come to the power, the state has taken one step back," Shah said. He further criticized the opposition on failing to deliver issues of development.
BJP's Road Map for Maharashtra
It has released a very aggressive plan to transform the state of Maharashtra: overhaul infrastructure, governance, and everything else
This is AI University in Maharashtra, to be the first from the BJP for the state as an attempt to reach and harness the burgeoning tech industry.
Free Ration Scheme: The government will increase its coverage of the free ration scheme aiming at upliftment of the poor.
Improved Infrastructure: There would be massive road development with a plan to connect 45,000 villages across the state through stronger roads.
The manifesto of the BJP also envisions the recruitment of 25,000 women police officers and increasing the monthly benefits of ASHA workers to ₹15,000. Such steps, as envisioned by the
BJP, would ensure a prominent seat for women at the forefront of state development.
Amit Shah, unveiling the manifesto, appears to be looking ahead toward regaining the control of Maharashtra by focusing on inclusive growth for farmers, women, and the youth. By promising economic welfare, employment, and better agricultural policies, the BJP would try its best to consolidate itself as the party of change in Maharashtra.
The elections are getting closer, but all would be keeping their fingers crossed and watching whether the promises made in the BJP manifesto really resonate with the voters in Maharashtra.
