ThePrint ThePrintAM: What are the highlights of UDF manifesto for Kerala?
Apr 3, 2026
Highlights include the UDF’s five Indira guarantees and new welfare measures like free dialysis and scholarships. Plans for dedicated health facilities, no-bill hospitals and tribal/coastal centres are discussed. Major promises on housing, agriculture budgets and man-animal conflict solutions appear. Proposals cover subsidies for fisheries and transport, Mission Samudra port plans, MSME support and education reforms.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Five Indira Guarantees Drive Manifesto
- UDF built its Kerala manifesto around five Indira guarantees including free bus rides for women and a Rs.1,000 monthly allowance for female college students.
- The guarantees also include a Rs.25 lakh family health cover, interest-free youth loans up to Rs.5 lakh, and raising welfare pensions to Rs.3,000, giving a clear welfare focus.
Expanded Welfare Measures Beyond Core Guarantees
- The manifesto pledges higher pay for ASHA workers, revised pay for anganwadi workers and school cooks, free dialysis for poor families, and scholarships for meritorious students.
- It also promises 5 lakh houses in five years, wedding auditoriums for low-cost ceremonies, and revamped welfare boards to clear pending dues.
Targeted Health And Coastal Livelihood Supports
- The manifesto targets coastal and tribal health access with SHE hospitals for women and children, dedicated centres, no-bill hospitals, and a fishery sub-plan with fuel and kerosene subsidies.
- It also proposes subsidies for Kerala Roadways, auto rickshaws and owner-operated taxis to lower transportation costs for citizens and fishing communities.