New Delhi: On Sunday, the Congress party unveiled its third major promise for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, pledging to provide ₹8,500 per month to educated unemployed youth for one year under a scheme called the ‘Yuva Udaan Yojana’.
Addressing a press conference, senior Congress leader Sachin Pilot explained that the scheme aims to offer more than just financial assistance. The party also intends to help unemployed youth secure jobs in industries matching their training and qualifications.
“This is not just about financial help,” said Pilot. “We will try to ensure that these youths are absorbed into the industry where their skills are needed.” He emphasized that the scheme is part of Congress’s broader vision to address unemployment and support the aspirations of Delhi’s youth.
Pilot also reminded voters of the upcoming election date: 5th February, urging them to choose a government that prioritizes their welfare.
This announcement comes after Congress revealed two other guarantees earlier this week:
- Pyaari Didi Yojana, offering ₹2,500 monthly assistance for eligible women.
- Jeevan Raksha Yojana, promising health insurance coverage of up to ₹25 lakh for Delhi residents.
While the party has yet to release its full manifesto, it has stated there will be five guarantees focusing on welfare and financial support. According to party sources, these promises were shaped after extensive consultations with grassroots workers and local communities.
Political Context
Congress’s efforts to regain ground in Delhi come after the party failed to win any seats in the last two Assembly elections. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) secured landslide victories in both 2015 and 2020, winning 67 and 62 seats, respectively. The BJP managed three seats in 2015 and eight in 2020, leaving Congress with no representation in the Delhi Assembly.
As the election date approaches, Congress’s guarantees reflect its strategy to challenge AAP’s dominance and reconnect with voters through targeted welfare schemes.
1) Who is eligible women. The definition of elegible women will come only after elections. In Tamil Nadu, DMK party promised Rs.1000 per month to all family women. After winning the elections, so many conditions were imposed for getting the amount.
2) Any free financial assistance should be banned as it is a drain on government exchequers.