Tamil Nadu has always grabbed the headlines for the election promises made by political parties. From gold chains to TV sets, the battle has now moved to washing machines and free cable connections.
In the run-up to the April 6 assembly election, all the main parties have promised new freebies in their manifestos.
The ruling AIADMK, which is contesting in an alliance with the BJP, has promised to give one government job per family along with washing machine and cable TV connection of the government-owned Arasu Cables to all below poverty line families.
In addition, it has promised these families free solar stoves. It has also promised six LPG cylinders for free in a year to every family.
The opposition DMK, on its part, has promised to reduce the price of LPG cylinders by ₹100 each if it is voted to power.
Both the parties have promised waiver of education loans. The AIADMK has offered 2 GB data free throughout the year for college students.
The DMK, in turn, has offered a tablet to every government school and college student. The AIADMK has also promised to implement the mid-day meal scheme for class 9, 10 and 11 students.
Whichever party or alliance comes to power in the state, the women are going to get maternity leave of one year, up from the existing six months. This promise has been made by both the leading parties.
In addition, the DMK has promised to provide Rs 24,000 as maternity assistance.The AIADMK has promised Amma Patrol vehicles to check crimes against women in cities. Among other promises, it has also promised to change the name of Madras High Court to Tamil Nadu High Court.
