With just days left for the Bihar elections, the Mahagathbandhan has unveiled its highly anticipated manifesto, setting the stage for a political battle centered on promises of jobs, welfare, and reform. Titled ‘Tejashwi Pran’ (Tejashwi’s Vow), the document reflects the alliance’s ambitious plan to reshape Bihar’s economic and social structure.
At its core, the manifesto aims to combine populist pledges with a long-term vision for governance. From employment guarantees to financial aid for women and subsidized energy, the Mahagathbandhan’s promises appear designed to appeal to both the unemployed youth and marginalized communities. The alliance, led by Tejashwi Yadav, has positioned itself as a force for transformation through its INDIA bloc’s Sankalp Patra 2025, promoting the slogan “Sampoorna Bihar ka, Sampoorna Parivartan – Tejashwi Pratigya, Tejashwi Pran.”
Jobs For Every Household
The central promise of the Mahagathbandhan manifesto is employment for every family in Bihar. The alliance has vowed to enact a law within 20 days of forming the government that guarantees one government job per family. According to the plan, job distribution will commence within 20 months, ensuring that every household benefits from state-backed employment. This pledge is aimed at tackling Bihar’s high unemployment rate and reviving public faith in the government’s ability to create stable livelihoods.
Alongside this, the manifesto promises to regularize all contractual and outsourced workers across departments. It also pledges to make all Jeevika (self-help group) women permanent government employees with a salary of Rs 30,000 per month. Tejashwi Yadav said that this step is not just an election promise but a “mission to rebuild Bihar’s dignity through dignified jobs.” The employment agenda has become a centerpiece of the Mahagathbandhan’s campaign, resonating strongly among the state’s youth.
Free Power And Affordable Gas
In an attempt to reduce household expenses, the Mahagathbandhan has promised to provide 200 units of free electricity to every household. This initiative, according to the alliance, will bring relief to families struggling with high utility bills and unstable power supply. The manifesto also includes provisions to resolve issues with faulty smart meters, a recurring grievance in several districts, and to withdraw all cases filed against consumers over disputed bills.
Additionally, the alliance has pledged to provide gas cylinders for Rs 500 to poor and lower-income families, emphasizing women’s economic relief. Tejashwi Yadav stated that the welfare policies are meant to “restore affordability and dignity to Bihar’s households.” The focus on energy subsidies and consumer rights marks a strong populist appeal aimed at addressing everyday struggles.
Women’s And Social Welfare Schemes
Empowerment of women forms the cornerstone of the Mahagathbandhan’s welfare policies. Through the “Mai-Bahin Maan Yojana”, women in Bihar will receive Rs 2,500 per month starting December 1, translating to Rs 30,000 annually for five years. The initiative seeks to improve the financial independence of women, especially those in rural and low-income families, and is being seen as a potential game-changer for female participation in the economy.
In addition to direct financial aid, the manifesto promises free health insurance worth Rs 25 lakh per person, Rs 1,500 monthly pension for widows and senior citizens (with annual increments), and Rs 3,000 for people with disabilities. The Mahagathbandhan has emphasized inclusive welfare that extends to all vulnerable groups, asserting that “no citizen will be left behind.” The schemes are designed to merge social justice with financial empowerment.
Old Pension Scheme And Education Reform
The Mahagathbandhan has also committed to restoring the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for government employees, reversing one of the most contentious policy changes in recent years. This move has been welcomed by public servants and unions who have long demanded the revival of the OPS. The alliance argues that this decision reflects its respect for workers’ rights and financial security.
In the education sector, the alliance plans to build women’s colleges in every sub-division and open new degree colleges in 136 blocks that currently lack higher education institutions. It has also promised to abolish examination fees for competitive exams and offer free transportation for students appearing in such tests. These initiatives are aimed at improving access to education and reducing the economic burden on students, particularly those from rural areas.
Support For Farmers And Minorities
The manifesto offers significant relief and support for Bihar’s farmers. It pledges to ensure Minimum Support Price (MSP) for all crops and to revive local markets and mandis to stabilize the agricultural economy. The alliance also plans to introduce farmer-friendly reforms to enhance irrigation facilities, improve access to credit, and strengthen crop insurance coverage. These measures are intended to address rural distress and promote sustainable agriculture.
For minority communities, the Mahagathbandhan promises transparent management of Waqf properties and the handover of Bodh Gaya temples to the Buddhist community. It also assures protection of constitutional rights and vows to oppose any “unconstitutional laws” imposed by the Centre. Additionally, a welfare corporation for ex-servicemen and a review of the prohibition law are among the other commitments made to ensure inclusive governance and justice.
INDIA Bloc Leaders Call It A Historic Step
Congress leader Pawan Khera hailed the Mahagathbandhan manifesto as “the first serious roadmap for Bihar’s future,” praising the alliance for declaring its chief ministerial candidate and releasing the document ahead of the NDA. He said, “This manifesto shows who truly cares about Bihar’s growth and who only plays politics.”
VIP Chief Mukesh Sahani, announced as the Deputy CM candidate, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the alliance would “serve the people of Bihar for the next 30 years with honesty and commitment.” He added that while the NDA lacked any real vision, the Mahagathbandhan’s ‘Tejashwi Pran’ embodies a new hope for millions. The manifesto ends with a heartfelt appeal to voters to join hands in creating a “prosperous, just, and new Bihar built on equality and opportunity.”
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About the Author:
Harshit Raj
