Chennai: Ahead of the April 23 Assembly elections, Tamil Nadu’s newly formed political party TVK has entered the state’s long-standing “freebie” politics with a manifesto packed with cash transfers, subsidies, and welfare guarantees.

At the launch of the party’s maiden manifesto, TVK founder and actor Vijay took a swipe at rival parties, accusing them of copying each other’s welfare promises.

“Take a look at the election manifestos released by both of them. If one or two points were somewhat similar, it would be fine. But do you know what they have done? If one gives ₹10,000, the other gives a coupon for ₹8,000. If one gives a fridge, the other gives a token to buy a fridge… both have given the same manifesto, only changing the name and colour,” Vijay said.

However, moments later, the actor-turned-politician unveiled an extensive list of welfare promises, including a higher monthly assistance of ₹2,500 for women below 60 years, compared to ₹2,000 offered by the state’s major Dravidian parties. The manifesto also promises six free LPG cylinders per year per family.

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For brides from economically weaker backgrounds, TVK has promised 8 grams of gold and a silk saree as marriage assistance.

Targeting farmers, the party has pledged full waiver of agricultural cooperative crop loans for those owning less than five acres, and 50% waiver for larger landholders. It has also promised full crop insurance coverage and five lakh free solar pump sets.

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To reduce school dropouts, the manifesto offers ₹15,000 annual assistance to mothers or guardians of school-going children in government and aided institutions.

For unemployed youth, TVK has promised ₹4,000 per month for graduates registered with employment exchanges, and ₹2,500 per month for those with Class 12, ITI, or diploma qualifications. Senior citizens, widows, and differently-abled persons are assured a ₹3,000 monthly pension.

Fisherfolk are promised ₹27,000 as fishing ban and lean season assistance, along with pucca houses for fishing families. Tenant farmers and agricultural labourers are also assured ₹10,000 annual cash transfers.

The party has also promised an additional 100 units of free electricity over the existing 100-unit scheme in Tamil Nadu, along with ₹25 lakh universal health insurance covering major illnesses and surgeries.

In the education sector, TVK has pledged to set up 100 “Kamarajar Schools of Excellence” and offer free competitive exam coaching powered by artificial intelligence.

The manifesto was released as a book at a closed-door event, where Vijay handed over the first copy to a farmer. Copies were also presented to representatives from various sections of society, including an auto driver, a teacher, and a transgender person.