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Tamil Nadu public transport and welfare expansions

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2026-09-22 05:03 UTC → 2026-09-22 07:45 UTC · added removed

In Tamil Nadu, the government has implemented expansions to free bus travel programs targeting specific demographics. Initially, the state expanded free travel for individuals with a disability rating of 40% or higher, utilizing the Unique Disability Identity Card (UDID). This expansion included Express, Limited Stop Service (LSS), Deluxe, and mofussil buses, while allowing an attendant to travel free of cost for those unable to commute independently. Following these measures, Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay announced the ‘Vettri Payanam’ scheme, which expands free bus travel to women starting October 2. This initiative covers approximately 69% of the state’s scheduled buses, including Express, LSS, and Deluxe buses in urban areas, as well as Mofussil and Ghat Ordinary buses in hill regions. The program is expected to benefit approximately 84.32 lakh women daily. In a broader push for state welfare, the government has expanded the Perunthalaivar Kamarajar Breakfast Scheme. Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has launched the extension of free morning meals to students in Classes 6 to 8, whereas the program previously only covered Classes 1 to 5. This expansion is expected to benefit approximately 15.30 lakh additional students across 15,454 government and government-aided schools, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 34.64 lakh children across 44,984 institutions. To support this growth, the state has allocated an additional Rs 217.63 crore, raising the total program budget to Rs 724 crore. The scheme aims to combat malnutrition and improve school attendance. Implementation will occur statewide, though the rollout is deferred in Chengalpattu Madurantakam, Dharapuram, Chengalpattu, and Tiruppur districts due to the Model Code of Conduct for upcoming Assembly by-elections. In Chennai, the Greater Chennai Corporation will manage meals through integrated kitchens, while the Tamil Nadu Women's Development Corporation will facilitate meal preparation by self-help groups in rural regions.

Versions

  1. 2026-09-22 07:45 UTC Tamil Nadu public transport and welfare expansions
  2. 2026-09-22 05:03 UTC Tamil Nadu public transport and welfare expansions
  3. 2026-09-22 03:14 UTC Tamil Nadu public transport and welfare expansions
  4. 2026-09-21 10:24 UTC Tamil Nadu public transport welfare expansions

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