Thiruvananthapuram, May 18 -- Keralam Chief Minister VD Satheesan on Monday announced welfare schemes for grassroot workers, women and senior citizens of the state, after the first cabinet meeting of the newly sworn-in UDF government.

Addressing a press conference, the CM said that the government will provide free rides on Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses for women, starting June 15, implementing the UDF's guarantee.

He said that the model draws inspiration from the successful transport model in Japan, which the Keralam government aims to explore and implement.

He further said that the Keralam government will constitute a brand-new Department for the Elderly, making it the first state in India to have a dedicated m...