It has been a sort of an unwritten tradition in Kerala that the two major political fronts—the United Democratic Front (UDF) and the Left Democratic Front (LDF)—have been alternatively winning assembly elections in the state.
This time, however, the ruling LDF is hoping to break the tradition and retain power.
Assembly elections are due in Kerala in a couple of months, probably in April. The LDF has been preparing the groundwork for its victory. Its success in the recently held local bodies elections has given the front a boost.
The LDF government’s welfare schemes such as pension for the aged and free distribution of food kits to all have been a major factor in getting votes for the LDF candidates.
Realizing this, the state government has extended distribution of food kits to all till April and even increased the pension amount by ₹100.
So far the government has been incurring ₹710 crore per month for the pension scheme to about 50 lakh people.
The pension amount used to be delivered once in three or four months. Currently, especially after the outbreak of Covid-19, pension is being given every month and nearly 48% of the beneficiaries receive the amount at home and the rest through banks.
It costs the government ₹400 crore per month for the food kits.
Come what may, the government is determined to go ahead with the welfare schemes, pooling resources from every corner, including from the CM’s disaster relief fund.
Undoubtedly, many poor people are likely to vote for the LDF candidates as the schemes are to their benefit in this time of difficulty.
One will have to wait and see that how many people will see through the real game of the government and support the LDF candidates in the coming Assembly elections.