Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin Advances Rs 5,000 to Women in Pre-Poll Move
In a strategic pre-election action, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Friday credited Rs 5,000 in advance to 1.31 crore women beneficiaries under the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai scheme. This move is positioned as a direct response to what he described as attempts by "Delhi-based forces" and their allies within Tamil Nadu to obstruct the disbursement ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.
Stalin Confident of Retaining Power, Announces Scheme Enhancement
Stalin expressed strong confidence about his government retaining power in the forthcoming polls. He made a significant announcement that the monthly financial assistance under the scheme would be increased to Rs 2,000 under the proposed Dravidian Model 2.0 government. Without explicitly naming the BJP or its ally AIADMK, which leads the NDA in Tamil Nadu, Stalin referred to "a Delhi-based gang and its subservient gang in Tamil Nadu" allegedly trying to halt the scheme for three months, citing the election period.
He revealed that information emerged suggesting some parties were planning to approach the court to stop the payments. In response, the government decided to release the amount in advance to ensure continuity for beneficiaries. "As one among your family members, I know the difficulties you will face if the Urimai Thogai stops for 3 months," Stalin said in a video message. "How will you manage monthly expenses, buy medicines for elders, or meet the education needs of your children? And that too in the hot summer months, when going to work itself is very hard."
Details of the Advance Payment and Summer Assistance
Stalin explained that the advanced payment includes Rs 3,000 as pre-payment for February, March, and April, along with an additional Rs 2,000 designated as summer assistance. The total amount was deposited into beneficiaries' accounts early Friday morning. He urged the women, whom he called "beloved sisters", to spend the money carefully and save a portion for future needs.
Emphasizing his commitment, Stalin stated, "I want to make an important announcement at this juncture. In the Dravidian Model 2.0 govt, Urimai Thogai will be raised to Rs 2,000." He attributed this promise to "Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin, who keeps his word", addressing doubts about implementation and asserting that the government, which has posted economic growth, will deliver on its pledges.
Background and Impact of the Welfare Scheme
Recalling the rollout of the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai scheme, Stalin noted that many initially claimed it was not feasible. However, his government managed the financial situation and overcame what he described as the Union government's discriminatory approach towards Tamil Nadu to launch the scheme in September 2023. Initially covering 1.13 crore women, the scheme has recently been expanded to include 1.31 crore beneficiaries.
Stalin highlighted that the assistance is not merely financial support but also a recognition of women's contributions to society. It helps women meet essential needs such as education expenses and medical requirements for their families. "That is why every woman was waiting for the 15th of each month," he said, adding that several other states have replicated this model due to its success.
The chief minister's actions and statements underscore a focused effort to bolster welfare initiatives and counter political opposition as Tamil Nadu gears up for Assembly elections, positioning the Dravidian Model as a key electoral platform.
