The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has unveiled a series of ambitious welfare initiatives aimed at women as part of its manifesto for the upcoming Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu. The party has committed to providing monthly financial support of Rs 2,000 to women heads of households, along with other attractive incentives including three free liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders annually.

The manifesto, released by Union Minister JP Nadda, also includes a subsidy of Rs 25,000 for women looking to purchase electric scooters, a concession of 3% on stamp duty for first-time women homebuyers, and a one-time household assistance scheme amounting to Rs 10,000. Furthermore, the BJP plans to enhance the existing Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi by adding a top-up of Rs 3,000 to the current annual support of Rs 6,000 provided to farmers.

Nadda, while presenting the manifesto dubbed ‘Creating a New Era through Lotus Promise 2026’, took a sharp swipe at the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government, accusing it of widespread corruption and nepotism. He alleged that various DMK leaders have been implicated in cash-for-job scams and irregularities concerning government tenders.

As the political landscape heats up, the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections are set to take place on April 23, with the results expected to be announced on May 4. This election follows a string of promises made by the ruling DMK, which released its manifesto on March 29, pledging to double the monthly assistance under the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai scheme to Rs 2,000 for over 1.3 crore women beneficiaries.

The BJP’s announcement is seen as a strategic move to connect with the female electorate, a demographic that has gained significant political influence in recent years. By offering these financial incentives, the party aims to not only win votes but also position itself as a champion of women’s rights and empowerment in the state.