Supporters welcome Rahul Gandhi to Mizoram on Friday. Picture by Eastern Projections

Aizawl, Nov. 21: The Congress today played its all-inclusive growth card with gusto, hoping it would pave the way for its return to power after 10 years in the Opposition.

This was more than underlined by the assurances and commitments made by AICC general secretary Rahul Gandhi in the three election rallies he addressed during his whirlwind campaign in Mizoram that is going to the hustings on December 2.

The crux of Rahul’s three speeches remained the all-round development of the hill state by putting stalled development projects, with special focus on kisan brothers and the youths, on the fast track.

The stalled projects include the Greater Aizawl Water Supply and the Tuirial hydel power projects.

The Gandhi scion reiterated that the Congress, if voted to power, would revive the policy of granting free land to each farmer, besides Rs 1 lakh to start productive business.

If elected in Mizoram Assembly elections, the Congress government would do its best to improve the plight of the Mizos in education and health sectors, Rahul said.

He announced that the government would arrange free medical treatment and other health facilities for the Mizos if the Congress was returned to power. It would also help “talented” youths of the state realise their potential, Rahul said.

He reminded the Mizos that the need of the hour was an accelerated pace of development in economic and social sectors like agriculture and horticultural modernisation, industry, infrastructure, health and education.

His presence appeared to have galvanised party workers who hoped the “Rahul magic” would work on the discerning electorate whose wishes are similar to their counterparts elsewhere — peace and all-round development.

Hundreds flocked to the rallies Rahul addressed at Serchhip, Saitual and Aizawl. “He has beautifully articulated our manifesto which is about all-round growth and prosperity for all. We hope his magic works on the voters,” said a party worker while applauding the young Congressman’s speech.

The hope stems from the fact that the ruling Mizo National Front (MNF), which romped home in 1999 and 2003, appears to be on an uneasy wicket as the sweep of anti-incumbency wave against the party is slowly taking a firm grip among a large section of the electorate.