On a pivotal Sunday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah revealed the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) manifesto for the Maharashtra polls, packed with promises aimed at transforming lives. The manifesto is a beacon of hope for farmers, offering them debt relief and a promising pricing scheme. Women, too, will benefit from a monthly allowance of 2,100 INR, while a massive 2.5 million jobs are to be created, spurring unprecedented economic activity.
Focus on Women, Farmers, and Youth
Among the standout pledges, the BJP assures the waiving of farmer debts and the launch of a beneficial pricing scheme aimed at empowering the agriculture sector. The ambitious plan to create 2.5 million new jobs is coupled with the opening of skill centers across Maharashtra, laying down a robust foundation for the youth's future. Additionally, raising the pension for the elderly to 2,100 INR per month showcases the BJP's commitment to welfare.
'India to be the Third Largest Economy by 2027'
In his address, Home Minister Amit Shah portrayed the manifesto as a reflection of aspirations. He didn't shy away from critiquing the opposition coalition Maha Vikas Aghadi. Boldly, Shah challenged, 'I would like to ask Uddhav Thackeray if he can persuade Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to utter a couple of good words for Veer Savarkar.'
The Home Minister pointed out, 'Few believed Article 370 would be abolished. But today, the NDA government stands proud, having dismantled it. Our pledge was for a prosperous India, and within a decade, we have soared our economy to the fifth position. By 2027, our goal is to catapult India to the third-largest economy.'
'Congress President Forced to Say...'
Amit Shah remarked, 'We have provided 70 million poor citizens with housing, electricity, gas, toilets, drinking water, free grain, and free healthcare. In contrast, the Aghadi makes promises that leave Congress's president concerned because fulfilling them has been an ordeal, as seen in Himachal, Telangana, and Karnataka.'
Elections Scheduled for November 20
The electoral battle for Maharashtra's 288 assembly seats will unfold on November 20, with results to be declared on November 23. In the last election, the BJP secured 105 seats, Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54, and Congress 44. After the elections, Shiv Sena broke away from NDA, forming a government with NCP and Congress under Uddhav Thackeray's leadership.
In June 2022, internal conflicts shook Shiv Sena, leading Eknath Shinde to split the party with 40 MLAs and, with BJP's backing, becoming the Chief Minister. Now, Shiv Sena and NCP are divided into factions, led by Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar.
