Bengaluru: Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar highlighted that the Congress party’s guarantee program played a pivotal role in compelling Prime Minister Narendra Modi to lower the LPG cylinder price due to mounting pressure.
Shivakumar noted, “The Karnataka government is alleviating the financial burden on families by providing a Rs 2,000 allowance to female heads of households which helps for LPG cylinder purchases, and it’s due to our insistence that the PM took action to reduce LPG costs.”
Speaking from his residence in Sadashiva Nagar, Shivakumar addressed whether the PM was apprehensive about Congress’ guarantee initiatives. He mentioned that despite criticism from opponents about these programs leading to financial stress, the BJP, even in states they govern, announced a similar Rs 1,500 allowance in Madhya Pradesh. This underscored the influence of Congress’ initiatives, which made the BJP take note.
Shivakumar praised Karnataka’s government programs such as Shakti, Gruha Jyoti, and Anna Bhagya, which have resonated with women across the nation. Celebrating the government’s successful 100 days in power, he expressed pride in the achievements. Although the goal was to reach 1.30 crore women beneficiaries, technical issues have resulted in approximately 1.10 crore women availing the benefits, he added.
