Mamata Banerjee Unveils TMC Manifesto with Ambitious Welfare Promises for West Bengal
In a significant move ahead of the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections, Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee released the party's manifesto on Friday in Kolkata. The document, titled 'Banglar Jonno Didir 10 Protigya' (10 pledges of Didi for Bengal), outlines a comprehensive vision for social welfare, employment generation, and infrastructural development, aiming to secure a historic fourth consecutive term for the party.
Key Initiatives for Healthcare and Women's Empowerment
The manifesto prioritizes healthcare through the 'Duare Chikitsa' initiative, which promises annual medical camps at the doorstep in every block and town across the state. This move is designed to enhance accessibility to healthcare services for all residents.
For women's empowerment, the TMC has pledged to boost household incomes by enhancing the 'Lakshmir Bhandar' scheme. Under this, SC/ST women will receive Rs 1,700 per month, while women from the general category will get Rs 1,500 per month, marking a significant increase in financial support.
Youth Employment and Educational Upgrades
Addressing youth unemployment, the party introduced the 'Banglar Yuba-Sathi' scheme, which will provide Rs 1,500 per month to educated unemployed individuals aged 21–40 until they secure employment. Additionally, the manifesto commits to creating 10 lakh new job opportunities through industrial and infrastructure projects.
In the education sector, the 'Banglar Shikshayatan' initiative promises holistic infrastructural upgrades for all government schools, aiming to improve the quality of education and learning environments.
Support for Farmers and Infrastructure Development
The TMC has vowed to support farm families and landless farmers with a dedicated Rs 30,000 crore 'Agri-Budget' to promote overall agricultural development. Furthermore, the manifesto includes promises for pucca houses for every family and piped drinking water under the 'Ghore Ghore Nal, Porisruto Paniyo Jal' scheme.
Pensions and Administrative Reforms
For senior citizens, the party ensures uninterrupted old-age pension support, with plans to gradually extend coverage to all eligible beneficiaries. Administrative reforms are also highlighted, including the creation of seven new districts and an expansion of urban local bodies through comprehensive reorganisation.
Economic Ambitions and Gig Workers Policy
The manifesto outlines ambitious economic goals, aiming to position Bengal as India's third-largest economy within the next decade and establish it as a gateway for trade in western India. A new 'Gig Workers Policy' is proposed to bring all registered gig workers under the 'Bina Mulya Samajik Suraksha Yojana' (BM-SSY), ensuring social security and institutional protection.
Political Accusations and Election Timeline
During the manifesto release, Mamata Banerjee targeted the BJP-led Centre, accusing it of withholding the state's legitimate dues. She claimed that the Centre owes West Bengal Rs 2 lakh crore and has stalled crucial funds meant for development programmes. The state is set to vote in two phases on April 23 and 29, with counting scheduled for May 4.
The TMC's manifesto emphasizes inclusive development with targeted initiatives for various demographics, including women, youth, farmers, and senior citizens, as the party gears up for a high-decibel election campaign in West Bengal.
