AAP introduced welfare schemes such as Pujari-Granthi Samman Yojana and Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana ahead of elections.
New Delhi: Over the past year, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has faced significant challenges as many of its top leaders were imprisoned. Although they are now out on bail, this period disrupted the party’s administrative focus. Consequently, AAP’s strong grassroots presence in Delhi has weakened compared to previous years. In response, the AAP-led Delhi government is working to regain voter confidence through various welfare schemes such as the Pujari-Granthi Samman Yojana, Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana, and Sanjeevani Yojana.
Since the release of AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on bail in September 2024, the party has launched a series of initiatives targeting different sections of society to appeal to voters ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, expected in February-March 2025 (exact dates to be announced by the Election Commission). These schemes, which include support for auto-rickshaw drivers and the recently announced Pujari-Granthi Samman Yojana, reflect AAP’s strategy to attract voters through welfare measures and freebies, as the party struggles to regain its lost ground.
This marks a shift in AAP’s election strategy, which initially focused on themes of justice and governance achievements, but has now pivoted to voter-centric schemes in an attempt to rebuild its image and presence in the national capital.
A source within AAP revealed to The Sunday Guardian that the party has acknowledged the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections as significantly more challenging, compared to those in 2015 and 2020. Many incumbent MLAs are facing strong anti-incumbency sentiment, prompting the party to replace over 20 sitting MLAs. Senior leaders, dealing with similar issues, have also been shifted to different constituencies. Reports indicate a tough contest between AAP and the BJP, with the latter gaining ground in Delhi.
Analysts predict a neck-and-neck battle between the two rivals, making this election AAP’s toughest yet. To counter anti-incumbency and rebuild its connection with Delhiites, AAP has shifted its campaign strategy toward welfare promises, focusing heavily on freebies. Over the last three months, the party has announced four major schemes aimed to woo voters with financial incentives disguised as welfare initiatives.
Key schemes announced by AAP
Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana: In December 2024, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal announced an increase in financial assistance for women aged 18 and above in Delhi under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana. The monthly aid was raised from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,100 for women without a formal source of income. Taxpayers and those already receiving government aid are excluded. Registrations for the revised scheme began on December 13, 2024.
Sanjeevani Yojana for senior citizens: AAP introduced the Sanjeevani Yojana to provide free healthcare for residents aged 60 and above. The scheme covers medical expenses in both government and private hospitals, without income restrictions. If timely care is unavailable in government facilities, patients are referred to private hospitals at no cost. Between 2022 and 2024, over 12,000 beneficiaries utilised this program.
Support for auto-rickshaw drivers: AAP announced a welfare package for auto drivers, including Rs 10 lakh life insurance, Rs 5 lakh accident insurance, financial assistance for daughters’ weddings, and uniform costs. The party also plans to relaunch the ‘PoochO’ app for easier access to registered auto rides. Additionally, a uniform allowance of Rs 2,500 will be credited to drivers’ accounts twice a year, and coaching for their children will be sponsored by the government.
Pujari-Granthi Samman Yojana: Launched in December 2024, this scheme provides a monthly honorarium of Rs 18,000 to eligible temple priests and Gurdwara granthis in Delhi. Registrations began on December 31, 2024, with a simplified application process. The initiative aims to ensure financial stability for religious leaders while recognising their cultural contributions. It reflects AAP’s focus on social welfare and inclusivity ahead of the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections.