BJP manifesto to mention Ram Mandir and Article 370

New Delhi: BJP’s manifesto is likely to focus on Narendra Modi’s mantra of development. While the BJP’s main plank is expected to be development and good governance, sources said the manifesto will also have a mention of ideological issues like Ram Mandir and Article 370.

The manifesto will mainly stress on economic revival, rationalisation of taxes, growth in agriculture and infrastructure, women’s empowerment, skill development to enhance job opportunities and defence preparedness for the armed forces.

Technology to assist farmers, and special courts to deal with blackmarketing are likely to be part of the document. The BJP is also likely to mention how it will protect the Constitution’s federal structure.

While the party has maintained the delay in its manifesto release was due to the hectic campaign schedule of its top leaders, sources said last minute changes at the behest of Mr Modi and condensing the document also added to the delay.

The BJP manifesto is expected to give emphasis on some regions, including the Northeast and economically backward states, also including Jharkhand and Odisha, while the BJP-led NDA’s pet project interlinking rivers might also find a mention in it.

Developing “smart cities”, establishing educational and medical institutions, improved health infrastructure and and promotion of tourism and the trade sector are expected to part of the document.