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Akhilesh Yadav promises 300 units free power and 40000 rupees yearly aid for women in Uttar Pradesh, attacks BJP on inflation and services ahead of 2027 polls
Akhilesh Yadav (SP): Akhilesh Yadav is the President of Samajwadi Party (SP). He has been serving as the national party head since 2017. Earlier, he served as the youngest Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh from 2012 to 2017. He is 52-year-old.
Stepping up his pitch well ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday announced a slew of welfare measures, including 300 units of free electricity and an annual financial assistance of ₹40,000 for women, in what is being seen as a direct attempt to consolidate key voter segments.
Addressing party workers and supporters, Yadav said that if voted to power, his government would provide substantial economic relief to households through free power and cash support targeted at women. The proposed Rs 40,000 yearly aid is expected to be rolled out through a revamped version of the Samajwadi Pension scheme, significantly higher than earlier assistance programmes, he said.
Notably, the announcement comes at a time when political parties across states are increasingly relying on direct benefit schemes to woo voters. Analysts believe the move is aimed particularly at women and low-income households, constituencies that have played a decisive role in recent elections.
Yadav also targeted the ruling BJP government, alleging failures in areas such as inflation, electricity supply and public services. He accused the government of irregularities in power distribution, particularly flagging concerns over the rollout of smart meters.
The SP chief’s welfare push signals an escalation in the “freebies” debate, with critics questioning the fiscal sustainability of such promises. Experts point out that while cash transfer schemes have proved electorally effective in several states, they also pose challenges for state finances if not backed by adequate revenue planning.
Politically, the announcement reflects the Samajwadi Party’s effort to regain lost ground after recent electoral setbacks, while countering the BJP’s strong outreach among women voters. With the 2027 contest still some distance away, the early rollout of promises indicates an aggressive strategy to shape the narrative in Uttar Pradesh’s high-stakes electoral battle.
Uttar Pradesh, India, India
April 21, 2026, 7:19 PM IST
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