The newly elected UDF government in Kerala presented its first policy address, outlining a vision focused on social welfare, education, tourism, and a stringent anti-drug campaign. The speech notably avoided direct criticism of the previous LDF government or the central government, signaling a shift towards constructive governance.

The address emphasized the continuation and expansion of welfare schemes, particularly the welfare pension, which was a flagship program of the previous government. The new government proposed increasing the pension to ₹3,000 per month, benefiting 62 lakh families. However, it did not explicitly acknowledge the LDF’s role in implementing the scheme, instead presenting it as a new initiative.

A major highlight was the zero-tolerance policy against drugs, with the government vowing to dismantle the drug mafia and confiscate assets of those involved in the drug trade. The ‘Operation Thoofan’ was mentioned as a coordinated effort by the excise, health, and home departments to make Kerala a drug-free state.

Other key areas included responsible and spiritual tourism, modernization of the fisheries sector, and support for higher education. The government plans to connect tourism with fisheries and introduce group insurance for fishermen. The policy speech also stressed the need to address the challenges of an aging population and women’s safety, including menstrual leave.

The policy address is seen as a precursor to the budget to be presented on June 5, with the Chief Minister, who also holds the finance portfolio, expected to outline the financial roadmap to implement these ambitious plans.