Rahul Gandhi NEW DELHI: As campaigning intensifies for the Puducherry assembly elections, the Congress has laid out an extensive welfare and governance roadmap, with a strong focus on jobs, social security and full statehood for the Union Territory.Addressing an election rally in Lawspet, Congress MP and leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi reiterated the party’s key promise, saying, “We are committed to giving full statehood to Puducherry.” Watch Indira, Rajiv Or Rahul Gandhi Need 7 Lives To Arrest Me: Himanta Sarma Takes ‘Pappu’ Dig At Congress He alleged that the current government in the Union Territory does not reflect the will of the people and is “imposed from Delhi”.What all has Congress announced?The Congress has announced a series of measures aimed at boosting employment and easing financial stress on households. The party has promised a monthly financial assistance of Rs 2,000 for unemployed youth and the creation of 30,000 new jobs across both public and private sectors.Focusing on women’s welfare, the party has pledged free bus travel for women in Puducherry. It has also proposed to relax the upper age limit for government jobs up to 40 years, aiming to widen employment opportunities.In the healthcare sector, Congress has promised a comprehensive insurance cover of Rs 20 lakh for every family in the Union Territory.Alongside welfare measures, the party has emphasised governance reforms. It has assured that local body elections will be conducted within six months of coming to power, while also reiterating its long-standing demand for full statehood for Puducherry.Targeting the BJP, Rahul Gandhi accused it of failing to fulfil its promise of granting statehood and alleged that the UT is being run by “remote control”, sidelining local leadership.He also levelled corruption charges, claiming that “there is a 30 per cent commission taken on all contracts” and that the government has become a “collection agent”.Urging voters to support the Congress and its alliance partners, Rahul Gandhi said that the party aims to form a government that truly represents the voice of the people of Puducherry.The Puducherry assembly elections will be held for 30 seats in a single phase on April 9, with counting of votes scheduled for May 4. The current assembly’s term is set to expire on June 15.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosMumbai Arrests Expose Toy Bomb Terror Plot, Pan-India Sweep Uncovers Radical ModuleIndia’s Kandla Port Breaks All Records At 160 MMT Cargo Despite West Asia Crisis, Aims Bigger TargetBJP MP Trivedi Slams Kharge, Accuses Congress of Dividing India Over Regional LinesIran Envoy Backs India’s ‘Strong Diplomacy’, Sees Delhi As Key Mediator As Ships Cross Hormuz SafelyGreen Asha Navigates Strait Of Hormuz Safely, Only One LPG Vessel RemainsIran FM Araghchi Calls Jaishankar As Hormuz Tensions SpikeDRDO Begins Work On Next-Generation Missile To Replace Prithvi Series : Reports“Adani Is BJP’s Financial Structure”: Rahul Gandhi Tears Into PM ModiPakistan To Return $3.5 Billion UAE Debt In April Despite Reserve StrainOil India Posts Record Crude Output From Rajasthan’s Thar Desert Amid West Asia Crisis123PhotostoriesWhy should you keep peacock feathers at home; know the benefits5 simple steps to change anything in your life (That actually work)Artemis II images: NASA releases stunning space images shot on iPhone 17 Pro Max from orbit5 Auspicious plants in Hindu culture that attract good fortune7 foods that can give you 20g of protein without chicken or protein powder”I thought I was healthy,” until a routine test revealed early liver damage: Warning signs people miss and simple changes that helped reverse itTop 10 high-fibre foods that aren’t vegetables10 home names inspired by cultural symbols and their meanings7 easy tips to keep your home smelling pleasant naturally10 animals that seem to “kiss” like humans but each behaviour has a completely different meaning123Hot PicksSophie CunninghamUpdated IPL Points TableStephen Curry MomSilver Rate TodayHow to Watch KKR vs PBKSPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVenus WilliamsAsian Stocks TodayStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Bengaluru Fake IPL ticketVijayIran Drone StrikeHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news
NEW DELHI: As campaigning intensifies for the Puducherry assembly elections, the Congress has laid out an extensive welfare and governance roadmap, with a strong focus on jobs, social security and full statehood for the Union Territory.Addressing an election rally in Lawspet, Congress MP and leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi reiterated the party’s…
