Kerala CM V.D. Satheesan Announces Free Bus Travel for Women

The newly formed United Democratic Front (UDF) government in Kerala has announced several welfare measures, including free travel for women in KSRTC buses starting from June 15.

Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan announced the decisions taken in the first cabinet meeting, stating that detailed guidelines for the free bus travel scheme will be issued later.

The cabinet also approved the creation of a dedicated department for senior citizens, which the Chief Minister described as the first initiative of its kind in the country.

The government emphasized that the dignity and care of elderly citizens will be a priority, aiming to build a more socially responsible society.

Fulfilling promises made during protests, the cabinet approved a monthly honorarium increase of ₹3,000 for ASHA workers.

The salary of Anganwadi workers, helpers, school cooks, pre-primary teachers, and ayahs has also been increased by ₹1,000 per month.

The cabinet recommended senior legislator G. Sudhakaran as the Protem Speaker and requested the Governor to convene the Assembly session.

As per the schedule, newly elected MLAs will take oath on May 21, and the election of the Speaker will take place on May 22.

The government also appointed senior advocate Rajeev Babu as Advocate General and T.S. Asaf Ali as Director General of Prosecution.