Kerala’s New Government Takes Big Welfare Decisions in First Cabinet Meeting

After returning to power in Kerala after a decade, the new UDF government led by Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan has made several major announcements in its very first cabinet meeting. The decisions, which focus on women, workers, senior citizens, and governance reforms, are being seen as the government’s attempt to deliver on key election promises soon after assuming office. One of the biggest announcements made by the cabinet is free bus travel for women in KSRTC buses across the state. The scheme is expected to come into effect from June 15 and is likely to provide major relief to working women, students, and daily commuters. The government said the initiative aims to improve women’s mobility and reduce their transportation expenses. The cabinet also approved a significant increase in honorariums for frontline workers. Asha workers will now receive an additional Rs 3,000 per month, while Anganwadi workers and other support staff will get a monthly increase of Rs 1,000. These workers had long demanded better wages and financial support, and the decision has been welcomed by many social organizations and employee groups. Another key move by the new government is the creation of a separate department dedicated to senior citizens. Chief Minister Satheesan described the decision as an important step toward building a more caring and respectful society for the elderly population in Kerala. The department is expected to focus on welfare schemes, healthcare support, and policies related to senior citizens. Apart from welfare measures, the government also made important administrative appointments. Senior MLA G. Sudhakaran has been appointed as the Pro Tem Speaker. Senior advocate Rajeev Babu will serve as the new Advocate General, while T.S. Asaf Ali has been appointed Director General of Prosecutions. The cabinet further decided to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to reinvestigate the alleged attack on Youth Congress workers in Alappuzha. According to the Chief Minister, the action is being taken in accordance with court directions. The government also announced that a white paper on Kerala’s financial condition will soon be released to provide clarity on the state’s economic situation. The UDF’s return to power after ten years came through a massive victory in the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections. Several top Congress leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, attended the swearing-in ceremony, highlighting the political importance of the victory for the Congress-led alliance.