Following are some of important comparisons in the manifestos of BJP and Congress:
Security:
BJP:
It calls for reviving of anti-terrorism mechanism that has been dismantled by the Congress. The party says it will improve upon POTA to ensure it is more effective as an instrument of deterrence.
It says it will launch a massive programme to detect, detain and deport illegal immigrants. It says it will completely revamp the internal and external intelligence agencies.
Congress:
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It says terrorism can be fought only by a united people, not by a people divided by religion. Religious polarisation that is intrinsic to the BJP severely erodes our capacity to combat terrorism.
Our policy is zero-tolerance towards terrorism from whatever source it originates. More specialist battalions will be raised and positioned in key locations across the country.
With the huge IT expertise available in our country, it is possible to provide every Indian with a unique identity card after the publication of the national population register in the year 2011.
Agriculture:
BJP:
The party says it will waive agricultural loans to farming community. It will set up a commission to study the entire gamut of farmers' loans and come up with an actionable solution to the deepening crisis within six months.
To set a maximum ceiling of 4 per cent interest for agricultural loans to farmers from banks.
BJP to introduce a pension scheme for aged and helpless farmers.
Congress:
The party says it will expand schemes for improving well-being of farmers and their families.
In addition to continuing the programmes that were launched over the past five years, the party promises that every small and marginal farmer in the country will have access to bank credit at lower rates of interest.
Congress will implement comprehensive crop insurance schemes.
The Congress says it is committed to ensuring that farmers get, at a very minimum, market rates for the land that is acquired for industrial projects.
Education:
BJP:
Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan to be strengthened, extended and concertised further in quality, content and support system.
Implementation of the mid-day meal scheme shall be revitalised on modern management lines.
Universalisation of secondary education shall be speedily implemented. Special emphasis to be given on girls education at the secondary level.
Institutions of higher learning to be given full autonomy coupled with accountability in real practice.
Congress:
Every year, over the next five years, Congress promises to add one more model school in every block.
Congress says it will implement a nation-wide skill development programme.
Tax:
BJP:
Income tax exemptions upto Rs 3 lakh for salaried class. Women and senior citizens will receive an additional exemption benefit of Rs 50,000.