Economic policy

In a bid to echo the transformative spirit of 1991, the Congress party unveiled its 'Nyay Patra' manifesto on Friday, outlining a comprehensive economic policy reset should the party come to power.

Central to this manifesto is the promise of an annual cash transfer of ₹1 lakh to impoverished families, along with addressing the pressing issues of unemployment and inflation.

At the heart of this proposed economic reform is the 'Mahalakshmi scheme,' a cornerstone of the party's five-year program for social justice. Under this scheme, every economically disadvantaged Indian family will receive ₹1 lakh annually as an unconditional cash transfer. The funds will be directed to the bank account of the eldest woman in these households, particularly targeting families at the lower end of the income spectrum.

Additionally, the Congress party has vowed to dismantle the Agnipath military recruitment scheme, which offers short-term military enlistment opportunities.

Furthermore, the manifesto underscore plan to revamp the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, linking it directly to job creation objectives. This strategic move aims to position India among the top five global manufacturing hubs while fostering employment opportunities. The party also proposes an employment-linked incentive program for corporations, incentivising increased hiring activities.

The manifesto, dubbed 'Nav Sankalp Economic Policy,' envisions fostering a fair, just, and equitable economy that provides equal opportunities for prosperity across all segments of society. Drawing parallels to the economic reforms of 1991 led by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, the Congress party aims to engage all sectors of society in the nation-building process.

One notable aspect of the manifesto is the commitment to uplift marginalised communities through reservation policies. The Congress party pledges to conduct a nationwide Socio-Economic and Caste Census to comprehensively document caste dynamics and socio-economic conditions. This data-driven approach will inform targeted affirmative action strategies to address historical inequalities.

Specifically, the party proposes a constitutional amendment to raise the current 50% cap on reservations for scheduled castes, tribes, and other backward castes. Additionally, it aims to reserve 10% of jobs and educational institution seats for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) across all castes and communities, ensuring a fair and inclusive approach to social upliftment.

Foreign policy

On the international relations front, the Congress party has laid out its foreign policy vision, emphasising a strategic shift in India's international relations, particularly with neighbouring countries.

A key highlight of the manifesto is the pledge to mend ties with the Maldives and engage with Pakistan on the condition of its willingness and capability to curb cross-border terrorism if the Congress comes to power. The party aims to prioritise restoring diplomatic relationships with the Maldives and collaborating with Myanmar to safeguard the political and human rights of its people.

Regarding Pakistan, the manifesto underscores that engagement will depend on Pakistan's sincerity in addressing cross-border terrorism. Additionally, the Congress intends to bolster India's diplomatic presence globally by expanding the Indian Foreign Service, establishing more diplomatic missions abroad, and leveraging India's economic strengths for strategic partnerships.

The manifesto also critiques the current government's foreign policy, citing departures from historical consensus, particularly in the context of issues like the ongoing Gaza conflict. The Congress party vows to reinstate India's international standing as a proponent of peace and moderation in global affairs.

A significant aspect of the manifesto is the commitment to improve bilateral relations with China. Congress promises to work towards restoring the pre-existing status quo along the India-China borders, allowing for regular patrolling by both armies in previously accessible areas.

Moreover, the Congress manifesto underscores the importance of strengthening ties with neighbouring countries such as Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. The party aims to enhance economic, cultural, and political relationships with these nations, focusing on mutual benefit and cooperation.

Specifically, the manifesto pledges to prioritise special relationships with Nepal and Bhutan, enhance ties with Bangladesh and Sri Lanka through economic and cultural initiatives, and collaborate with Sri Lanka to address political and commercial issues, especially concerning the Tamil community.

The manifesto's unveiling comes amid discussions on India's foreign policy landscape, with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently affirming India's favourable relations with most neighbours, excluding Pakistan and China. Jaishankar highlighted India's contributions to neighbouring countries during times of need, reflecting the government's efforts to maintain cordial relations in the region.

LGBTQ+ rights

The recently released manifesto by the Congress party ahead of the impending Lok Sabha elections has garnered attention for its progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights, particularly concerning civil unions within the community.

A significant highlight of the manifesto is the Congress party's commitment to introducing a law that would officially recognise civil unions between couples belonging to the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. This move is seen as a significant step towards addressing the rights and legal status of LGBTQ+ individuals in India.

The party's manifesto states, "After wide consultation, Congress will bring a law to recognise civil unions between couples belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community."

The context of this announcement is crucially tied to the Supreme Court's stance on LGBTQ+ rights. While the apex court refrained from legalising same-sex marriage in a landmark decision last year, it acknowledged the systemic discrimination faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in various spheres of life.

Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud's remarks during the court proceedings notably challenged the notion that LGBTQ+ concerns were limited to urban or elite circles. He emphasised, "Queerness is neither urban nor elite," highlighting the diversity and widespread impact of LGBTQ+ issues across society.

Although the court stopped short of granting marriage rights to same-sex couples, it underscored the fundamental freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution, particularly under Part III, which safeguards the rights of individuals, including those in queer relationships. Additionally, any discrimination based on sexual orientation was deemed unconstitutional under Article 15.

In response to these legal developments, the Supreme Court directed the central government to form a committee tasked with examining the rights and entitlements of individuals in queer unions. This move signalled a proactive step towards addressing the concerns of LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of formal legal recognition of their relationships.

The Congress party's inclusion of LGBTQ+ rights in its election manifesto reflects a growing societal awareness and acceptance of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. It also underscores the party's commitment to championing inclusivity, social justice, and equal rights for all segments of society, including marginalised communities like the LGBTQ+ population.