Anticipating the upcoming Assembly elections in Jharkhand, the ruling JMM government has begun its preparations. To win favor among women voters, the JMM government is promoting the Maiya Samman Yojana, led by Kalpana Soren. This scheme offers Rs 1,000 monthly to women, a program launched two months ago.
The government aims to secure its power by aligning women voters through this scheme. Similar initiatives like the Mahatari scheme in Chhattisgarh, Ladli Bahna scheme in MP, Didi scheme in Bengal, and similar programs in Karnataka and Bihar's prohibition and bicycle scheme have been game-changers in past elections.
Women Voters Outnumber Men in Several Seats
In Jharkhand, the total voter count is 25,518,642, out of which 12,997,325 are male voters, and 12,520,910 are female voters. This increasing female engagement could prove decisive. In 10 out of 28 reserved tribal seats, women voters outnumber men. For instance, Kolhan's Majhgaon has 51% female voters. Other areas with higher female voter counts include Littipara in Santhal Pargana, Chaibasa (50.62%), Khunti (50.44%), Shikaripara (50.22%), Simdega (50.21%), Maheshpur (50.09%), Kharsawan (50.08%), Manoharpur (50.07%), and Ghatsila (50.01%).
The statistics clearly show that political parties are keen to sway women voters for electoral success.
BJP Makes Big Promises
Meanwhile, Assam's CM and Jharkhand BJP election co-in-charge Himanta Biswa Sarma made a significant announcement. He mentioned that BJP will soon release a 150-point manifesto, including 25 major declarations and five key schemes.
This year marks the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda. Hence, the manifesto will have 150 points. It also commemorates Jharkhand's 25th foundation day, prompting 25 big announcements and five bullet-type schemes. Sarma revealed that BJP's government would launch the 'Gogo Didi Yojana,' surpassing the Maiya scheme. PM Modi has already given his approval.
The Gogo Didi Yojana, meaning Mother's and Sister's scheme, will see equal financial contributions from the state and central governments, effectively doubling the benefits. Forms for the scheme will be available soon.
