In an ambitious move to reshape the education landscape and address economic concerns in Madhya Pradesh, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra announced a multifaceted plan during a Jan Akrosh public rally in Mandla. This comprehensive initiative, named ‘Padho aur Padhao’ (Study and Make Others Study), seeks to not only provide free education up to the twelfth standard but also ensure financial support for students across all grades.
Addressing a diverse crowd, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra emphasised the pivotal role of education in empowering communities and driving socio-economic progress. “Every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow, irrespective of their background. ‘Padho aur Padhao’ is not just a promise; it’s a commitment to building a future where education is a right, not a privilege,” she declared.
Breaking down the scholarship component of the initiative, the Congress leader outlined a tiered approach. Students from classes 1 to 8 will be entitled to a monthly scholarship of Rs 500, those in 9th and 10th standard will receive Rs 1,000, and students in class XI and XII will benefit from Rs 1,500 every month. This move is poised to alleviate financial constraints on families and foster a culture of learning.
However, education was just one facet of Priyanka Gandhi’s vision for Madhya Pradesh. The Congress leader also presented a slew of promises aimed at revamping the economic landscape of the state. Among these commitments are the waiver of farmers’ loans, a significant reduction in electricity prices for agricultural use, the restoration of the old pension scheme for government employees, and a monthly stipend of Rs 1,500 for women.
In a passionate speech, she addressed the historical context, citing the 18-year rule of the BJP in Madhya Pradesh. “The BJP has done nothing for the people in their 18 years in power. Elections come, and they remember the people by announcing schemes, but where is the implementation?” Priyanka Gandhi asserted.
The Congress leader also drew attention to alleged scams during the BJP’s tenure, including Vyapam, mid-day meal, and scholarship-related controversies. “We have witnessed 250 scams during their rule, and it’s time for a change,” she declared, urging the people to focus on real issues such as rising prices and unemployment.
This announcement comes in the wake of a series of successful campaigns in Himachal and Karnataka, where similar promises played a pivotal role in the Congress forming governments. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s strategic approach aims to build momentum for the party in Madhya Pradesh, with the ‘Padho aur Padhao’ initiative at the forefront of her vision for a brighter and more equitable future.