The AIADMK has launched its initial set of pledges for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. The party announced these promises on Saturday, coinciding with the 109th birth anniversary of its founder, M G Ramachandran.
Key Welfare Proposals
Edappadi K Palaniswami, the AIADMK General Secretary and Leader of the Opposition, detailed the plans. He emphasized the party's commitment to inclusive growth and social justice. Palaniswami stated that these measures aim to empower women and strengthen livelihoods across the state.
Enhanced Cash Assistance for Women
Under the new 'Kulavilakku' scheme, the AIADMK promises to provide Rs 2,000 monthly to all ration card-holding families. This amount will be directly credited to the bank account of the woman head of the household. It doubles the current Rs 1,000 assistance offered by the DMK government's 'Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai' scheme.
Expanded Free Bus Travel
The party also plans to extend free bus travel to men using city buses. Currently, only women benefit from free travel under the DMK's 'Vidiyal Payanam' scheme. The AIADMK will retain this existing benefit for women while adding men to the program.
Housing and Employment Initiatives
Housing forms a major part of the AIADMK's manifesto. The proposed 'Amma Illam' scheme includes constructing free concrete houses for the houseless in rural areas. In urban areas, the party will build and allot apartments. Scheduled Caste families will receive separate concrete houses when sons establish independent households after marriage.
These housing objectives mirror the DMK's 'Kalaignar Housing Scheme'. However, the AIADMK aims to implement them with its own branding and approach.
Additional Promises
The AIADMK has outlined several other commitments. The rural employment guarantee program will expand to 150 days, exceeding the Centre's increase to 125 days. Additionally, the party plans to provide subsidised two-wheelers to 5 lakh women, offering a subsidy of Rs 25,000 each.
Future Plans and Vision
Palaniswami clarified that this announcement represents only the first phase of the AIADMK's election promises. Further proposals will cover education, healthcare, agriculture, youth employment, and industrial growth. He asserted that the party will present a comprehensive vision for Tamil Nadu, focusing on good governance and tangible outcomes.
The AIADMK's strategy appears to build upon existing DMK schemes while introducing new elements. By doubling cash aid and extending free travel, the party seeks to appeal to a broad voter base. The emphasis on women's welfare and housing highlights key areas of public concern in the state.
