AMN /
Congress today released its manifesto for Punjab Assembly elections. Releasing the manifesto in New Delhi, senior Congress leader and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Punjab is a state with tremendous potential which has not been exploited because of mismanagement. He said Punjab was a victim of terrorism and it has inflicted great deal of damage on the economy and polity of the state.
Mr Singh expressed belief that Punjab is in for better times under the leadership of Captain Amarinder Singh. The party has promised employment and housing for all, and free education to girls. Speaking on the occasion, Captain Amarinder Singh said the manifesto covers every facet of Punjab.
”We took six months to prepare the manifesto. We have gone through villages and reached out to the people. In Punjab we have Rs 5 crore deficit in budget. To tide over all this we have come with programmes for people from every walk of life. Rural debts are Rs 67 000 crore.We will negotiate with the banks so farmers don’t have to pay, “ Amarinder Singh said.
He referred to Congress ‘ Ghar Ghar main Naukri’ plan to target 90 lakh new voters this time in the age group 18-35 years. The Congress has also promised Rs 2,500 stipend to unemployed youth registered in the state till they get jobs.
He said rural debt in Punjab is 67,000 crore rupees and party is planning to take over debt of every farmer and negotiate with banks, once it is elected to power.
Mr Singh said drugs is the first thing which will be attacked and drug menace in Punjab will be ended in 4 weeks. He said 2500 rupees stipend will be given per month to every youngster till jobs are made available to them.