Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has announced a major initiative to provide three free liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders yearly to female heads of households under the new ‘Annapoorani Super 6’ scheme. This programme is set to commence during the upcoming Pongal festival in January. The initiative is expected to have an annual budget of Rs 4,000 crore and aims to assist over 1.30 crore eligible families across the state through a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism.

During a recent address to the Assembly, the Chief Minister mentioned that the scheme will focus on households with an annual income not exceeding Rs 2.5 lakh. It will also cater to economically disadvantaged families, small and marginal farmers, as well as families with differently-abled members. The cost of gas cylinders will be reimbursed, with payments directly deposited into the bank accounts of the female heads of families upon booking and official delivery

C. Joseph Vijay highlighted the economic difficulties that have necessitated this relief measure, noting global supply chain disruptions and price increases due to conflicts in the Gulf region. These factors have placed significant financial strain on households over recent months, leading some families to resort to alternative fuel sources.

Government’s Commitment to Women’s Empowerment

The Chief Minister emphasised the administration’s dedication to women’s empowerment as articulated in the ‘Vetri Vision Document’. Various targeted programmes, such as the ‘Singa Pen’ special task force and ‘Vetri Magalir Adugal Valarppu’, have already been allocated budgetary funds to ensure the safety and social progress of women throughout Tamil Nadu.

He reaffirmed that the new ‘Annapoorani Super 6’ scheme is part of a broader agenda to protect the welfare of families amidst prevailing economic challenges. This initiative is designed not only to alleviate financial burdens but also to fulfil the government’s commitment to support women-led households.

The announcement of the new LPG scheme aligns with several previously launched programmes aimed at enhancing the livelihood security of women across the state.

Expansion of Free Bus Travel Initiative

In a further effort to bolster social security, Chief Minister Vijay introduced the ‘Vetri Payanam’ scheme, which expands free bus travel for women and transgender individuals. This new transport initiative will begin on October 2, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Under the expanded scheme, women and transgender persons will be able to travel free on Express, Limited Stop Service (LSS), and Deluxe buses operating within metropolitan and urban areas. Additionally, the scheme will extend to ordinary fare buses that serve mofussil and hilly regions, enhancing inter-district accessibility.

The expected annual expenditure for implementing the ‘Vetri Payanam’ scheme is approximately Rs 6,000 crore. Importantly, this initiative will operate without any income restrictions or limits on the number of journeys that can be undertaken by beneficiaries.

The announcement of the scheme has been welcomed as a significant step towards increasing mobility and promoting inclusivity within the state’s public transport system.

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