
NEW DELHI: In the lead-up to the Delhi Assembly elections, the Congress party has shifted its focus to the youth with a significant pre-election promise. On Sunday, Congress announced the 'Yuva Udaan Yojana', pledging Rs 8,500 to every educated unemployed youth for one year if voted to power in the national capital.
The announcement was made by Congress leader Sachin Pilot at the Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee (DPCC) office. Highlighting the initiative, Pilot stated, “This initiative is more than financial support. It’s an investment in the future of Delhi’s youth. We aim to provide them with work opportunities in industries aligned with their qualifications.”
The Delhi Assembly elections, scheduled for 5 February, are set to be a high-stakes contest, with vote counting slated for 8 February. The 70-member Assembly will witness fierce competition among major political players.
Criticising the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the central BJP government, Pilot accused them of neglecting the aspirations of the younger generation.
"The youth have been neglected for too long. Their struggles have only increased due to the flawed policies of the central and state governments," he remarked. "Congress, however, is committed to providing practical solutions that not only offer financial relief but also enhance employability."
The 'Yuva Udaan Yojana' is part of Congress’s broader campaign strategy, which includes two other key guarantees. On 6 January, the party introduced the ‘Pyari Didi Yojana’, promising Rs 2,500 per month as financial assistance for women. Two days later, it launched the ‘Jeevan Raksha Yojana’, offering free health insurance coverage of up to Rs 25 lakh.
Pilot also called for constructive politics, distancing Congress from what he described as the "name-calling and blame game" that has characterised governance in recent years. "Delhi deserves a government that prioritises its people. Both the AAP and BJP have fallen short of their promises, leaving the public disillusioned. It’s time for a new direction," he added.