India, May 18 -- Newly sworn-in Kerala Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan announced a series of welfare measures during the first Cabinet meeting of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) government today.

Among the major decisions, the Kerala government approved free travel for women in KSRTC buses and announced a Rs.3,000 increase in the monthly honorarium of ASHA workers.

The Cabinet also approved a Rs.1,000 monthly hike for Anganwadi workers and helpers, school cooking staff, pre-primary teachers and ayahs.

In another key move, the government decided to create a dedicated department for elderly welfare, with Satheesan stating that Kerala should become a "model civilised society" by ensuring dignified care for senior citizens. ...