Election Manifestos & “Freebie” Schemes

1. Electoral Tradition – Historical Background

The electoral system in India is not new.
Chola period (around 1000 years ago):
Uthiramerur inscriptions mention election rules.

Eligibility criteria:
Taxes must have been properly paid
Good conduct and integrity are essential
Age: 35 – 70
Educational knowledge (such as Vedas)
Selection through Kudavolai system

Thus, the roots of democracy in India are ancient.

2. What is an Election Manifesto?

A document of promises released by political parties before elections.
It includes:
Policies
Plans
Welfare promises for the public

3. First Election Manifesto in the World

1848 – Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels
Communist Manifesto

Key features:
Workers' welfare
Equality
Right to education

It had a major impact in the 20th century.

4. Election Manifestos in India

1951–52: First General Election
Jawaharlal Nehru – Congress Manifesto

Key features:
Economic development
Industrial and agricultural growth
Employment
Poverty eradication
Free education and healthcare

Later:
Implemented through Five-Year Plans

5. Election Manifestos in Tamil Nadu – Key Developments

1957: DMK’s first election manifesto
State autonomy
Development of Tamil language
Social justice

1967: C.N. Annadurai
“One rupee per measure of rice” scheme

1982: M.G. Ramachandran
Midday meal scheme

2006: Karunanidhi
Free television scheme

Jayalalithaa:
Free laptops, mixer, grinder, fan

Others:
Free bus pass and bicycles for students
Free electricity for farmers

These schemes had a direct impact on society.

6. “Freebie” Politics – Current Situation

Today’s election manifestos:
Focused on free goods and financial assistance.
All parties announce direct cash or free schemes.

7. Critical Analysis

Questions arise:
Is distributing free money justified?
Is it sufficient to give money while leaving education and healthcare to the private sector?

Key thought:
The government must provide quality education and healthcare
Agriculture and industrial growth are essential
Long-term development is important

8. Key Points for Exams

Uthiramerur inscription → Ancient electoral system
1848 → Communist Manifesto
1951–52 → First general election in India
1957 → DMK’s first manifesto
1967 → Rice scheme
1982 → Midday meal scheme
“Freebies vs Welfare” → Important essay topic

Summary

Election manifestos play an important role in democracy.
Initially policy-driven, now freebie-oriented.

Real development lies in:
Education, Healthcare, Economic growth

Freebies may be necessary, but should not replace sustainable development.