Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President MK Stalin has released the party's manifesto on Sunday, March 29, 2026 at for the state assembly election, scheduled for April 23, 2026. Describing the document as a "superstar," Stalin introduced a range of welfare initiatives aimed at securing a second consecutive term. He announced Rs 8,000 coupon, for "non-Income Tax paying" homemakers to purchase and replace household electronic items. The DMK's manifesto released at the party headquarters Anna Arivalayam in Chennai.

Tamil Nadu CM also promised to implement several welfare schemes in various sectors, including education, industry, and agriculture, if the DMK returns to power.

The "Illatharasi" Appliance Coupon Scheme

The main highlighted part of manifesto is Illatharasi Coupon Scheme. Illatharasi in Tamil literally means queen of the house and actually refers to the female head of the family. Stalin labeled this scheme as "heroine" of 2026 election.

The Offer: A one-time coupon worth Rs 8,000 for homemakers in households that do not pay income tax.

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Flexibility: Unlike previous "freebie" models where the government distributed specific items, this scheme allows women to purchase or replace appliances of their choice, such as refrigerators, washing machines, microwaves, or induction stoves from local shops.

Strategic Aim: This move is seen as a direct effort to consolidate the women's vote bank, especially with the political entry of actor Vijay and competing promises from the AIADMK.

Major Welfare And Financial Pledges

The DMK has proposed significant hikes to existing cash transfer programs to support vulnerable populations:

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Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai: The monthly grant for 1.31 crore women beneficiaries will be doubled from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000.

Pensions: Old-age pensions will rise to Rs 2,000, while assistance for persons with disabilities will increase to Rs 2,500.

Healthcare: The income ceiling for the Chief Minister’s Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme will be raised to Rs 5 lakh, with total coverage increasing to Rs 10 lakh.

Infrastructure And Education

Transport: The party plans to introduce 10,000 new buses over the next five years.

Housing: The manifesto promises the construction of 5 lakh new houses under the Kalaignar Kanavu Illam scheme, alongside 10 lakh urban housing units and dedicated housing for Sri Lankan Tamils.

Nutrition: The Chief Minister’s Breakfast Scheme is set to be expanded to include students up to Class 8, benefiting an additional 15 lakh children.

Agricultural And Political Stance

The DMK promised to increase farming community procurement prices to Rs 3,500 per quintal for paddy and Rs 4,500 per tonne for sugarcane. It also pledged to install motors without meters for 20 lakh farmers receiving free electricity.

On the political front, the manifesto emphasizes state autonomy and federalism. Stalin reiterated the party’s commitment to the Justice Kurian Committee report on Centre-State relations and vowed to secure Tamil Nadu’s fair share of funds via the 16th Finance Commission. Addressing concerns regarding the budget for these schemes, the Chief Minister maintained that the state would generate necessary funds through disciplined financial management and robust economic growth.


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