In the lead-up to Kerala's elections, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) has unveiled a manifesto promising several welfare initiatives, including free bus travel for women on Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) services. This proposal, similar to Karnataka's Shakti program, could cost the state approximately ₹5,300 crore by 2026-27. However, there are concerns that such a scheme may strain the already tight finances of Kerala and negatively impact private transport operators, who play a crucial role in the state's economy. The ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) is focusing on continuity, pledging to enhance housing and job opportunities while emphasizing fiscal responsibility. All three major political alliances, including the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), have agreed to increase the monthly welfare pension from ₹2,000 to ₹3,000. Recent experiences in states like Karnataka and Telangana have shown the financial pressures that similar welfare guarantees can impose, raising questions about the sustainability of such promises in Kerala's context.