Thiruvananthapuram: Standing true to its election promises, the newly formed United Democratic Front (UDF) government in Kerala, led by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, has hit the ground running. In its very first cabinet meeting, the government initiated steps to fulfill two major election guarantees while addressing long-pending grievances of grassroots-level workers. At the same time, the administration sent a strong political message by deciding to review controversial actions taken by the previous Left Democratic Front (LDF) government.
Big Boost for Asha Workers and Ayahs
Fulfilling a passionate pre-election promise, CM Satheesan announced a substantial hike in the honorarium of Asha workers and Ayahs. Asha workers, who had staged a relentless 266-day protest during the previous regime, will see their monthly honorarium increased by ₹3,000, raising it from ₹9,000 to ₹12,000. Additionally, Anganwadi workers, helpers, school cooks, and pre-primary Ayahs will receive a monthly hike of ₹1,000, signaling the government’s strong commitment to the welfare of vulnerable segments.
Free KSRTC Travel for Women and Department for the Elderly
Silencing critics from the CPI(M) and BJP who questioned the feasibility of the UDF’s welfare schemes, the cabinet announced that the free travel scheme for women in Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses will be implemented starting June 15, 2026. Furthermore, a dedicated department for the elderly will be established to provide holistic support to senior citizens who rely solely on social welfare pensions.
Reopening the Nava Kerala Sadas Assault Case
In a significant political move that addresses deep-seated resentment within the Congress and UDF ranks, the government has ordered action against the security gunmen of the former Chief Minister. During the previous ‘Nava Kerala Sadas’ outreach program, these gunmen brutally assaulted protesting opposition activists. Ignoring a November 2024 order by the Alappuzha Magistrate Court to register a case, the previous LDF administration had actively shielded the personnel. Notably, one of the victims of that assault, KSU District President A.D. Thomas, has now been elected as an MLA from Alappuzha and stands as the youngest member of the newly formed Kerala Legislative Assembly. By initiating an investigation into the gunmen, the Satheesan government has strongly reassured its party cadre and the public of its commitment to justice and accountability.
With an impactful opening session, the V.D. Satheesan government has clearly signaled its intention to blend grassroots welfare with political assertiveness.
