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Bihar Elections 2024: INDIA Bloc’s Free Electricity, ₹2,500 for Women – Full Manifesto Breakdown

As Bihar prepares for its high-stakes assembly elections, the opposition INDIA bloc—comprising RJD, Congress, and Left parties—has unveiled a populist manifesto with sweeping promises. Key highlights include 200 units of free electricity per household and a ₹2,500 monthly stipend for women. Here’s a detailed analysis of the manifesto’s offerings, feasibility, and potential electoral impact.

1. 200 Units Free Electricity: Can Bihar Afford It?

The INDIA bloc’s pledge of 200 free electricity units monthly targets households struggling with high bills and erratic supply.

Key Points:

• Target Audience: Rural and urban poor, where power costs burden family budgets.
• Implementation Hurdles: Bihar’s debt of ₹3.5 lakh crore raises doubts about fiscal sustainability.
• Political Ripple Effect: A successful rollout could undermine the BJP-JD(U) alliance’s development narrative.

2. ₹2,500 Monthly for Women: Empowerment or Populism?

The bloc’s universal basic income-style promise aims to woo female voters, who form nearly 50% of Bihar’s electorate.

Highlights:

• No Restrictions: All women above 18 years eligible, regardless of caste/income.
• Criticism: Opponents label it a “freebie,” citing Tamil Nadu’s struggles with similar schemes.
• Voter Appeal: Could boost turnout among women, a decisive demographic.

3. Other Major Manifesto Promises

• Farm Loan Waiver: Full waiver to address agrarian distress.
• 1 Lakh Government Jobs: Pledged in the first year.
• Free Education & Healthcare: From school to graduation, plus universal health coverage.
• Caste Census Implementation: Faster rollout to tailor welfare schemes.

4. Challenges & Political Counterpoints

• Fiscal Feasibility: Funding these promises may require slashing other budgets or raising taxes.
• NDA’s Counter-Offers: BJP-JD(U) highlights LPG subsidies, farm MSP hikes, and infrastructure projects.
• Trust Factor: Voters may question delivery, given past delays in similar schemes elsewhere.

5. Verdict: Welfare Wars Define Bihar 2024

The elections are now a clash of welfare models:
– INDIA Bloc: Direct cash transfers and free utilities.
– NDA: Subsidies and infrastructure-focused development.

With unemployment and inflation as key issues, the INDIA bloc’s manifesto could sway low-income voters—if it convinces them of its execution plan.

Stay updated on Bihar elections with real-time analysis!

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