CHENNAI: Children in Tamil Nadu, who have lost their parents are able to continue their education without interruption, thanks to a new initiative of the Tamil Nadu government, named, ‘Anbu Karangal Scheme (Arms of Love).’
The scheme was formally inaugurated by the Chief Minister M K Stalin formally at a function held at ‘Kalaivanar Arangam’ in Chennai on Monday on the occasion of the birth anniversary of former Chief Minister C.N. Annadurai.
Stalin also distributed scholarships and laptops to beneficiary students.
Under the programme, children who have lost both parents, or those who have lost one parent and are unable to receive support from the surviving guardian, will be provided with a monthly stipend of Rs.2,000 until they complete their school education, thus ensuring that there is no dropping out of school due to financial distress. The scheme also aims to provide them with a secure path to higher learning and skill development.
In the first phase, a total of 6,082 children will receive a monthly aid of Rs.2,000 each until they complete their school education. The initiative forms part of the Tamil Nadu government’s ‘Thayumanavar’ programme, designed by the Tamil Nadu government to identify families living in extreme poverty and provide them with targeted assistance to improve their standard of living.
Speaking at the event, CM Stalin said that creating a “resilient Tamil Nadu” requires investing in the education and holistic development of the next generation, particularly those deprived of parental care and family support.
“Many believe politics is about coming to power, clinging to the craze for ‘the post’ while overlooking the responsibilities that come with it, implementing a few populist programmes, and then gearing up for the next election. But for us, the foundation is: ‘responsibility, not just the post.’ Authority exists so that we can work for the welfare of ordinary people.”
Listing out various welfare measures of his government, such as the Chief Minister’s Breakfast Scheme, providing financial aid to persons with disabilities and transgender persons, and granting aid to children who lost their parents during the COVID-19 pandemic, among others, Stalin quipped: “Are these for vote bank politics? No. How are they related to vote bank politics? Votes symbolise the confidence of the people we have won over.”
The responsibility that comes with the confidence of the people is an opportunity to uplift the most marginalised in society, Stalin contended. He said the DMK government is using its authority to bring about the changes necessary for the people and society. “Politics is about serving the people. It is hard work. As far as we are concerned, there is no place for luxury here.”
Apart from the monthly financial aid, the DMK government has announced that eligible children completing Class 12 will be supported in pursuing college education and relevant skill development programmes.Students admitted to higher education institutions through government efforts will also receive laptops and other learning resources.
This, officials said, would help them integrate smoothly into advanced educational environments and prepare for future employment opportunities.
The ‘Anbu Karangal Scheme’ is being seen as a continuation of the government’s long-standing focus on social welfare and education as pillars of development.
By bringing together financial aid, educational continuity, and skill-based training, the ‘Anbu Karangal Scheme’ aims not just to support the immediate needs of orphaned children but also to prepare them for long-term self-reliance and stability.
With this initiative, the DMK government has sought to reaffirm its commitment to inclusive growth, ensuring that vulnerable children are not left behind in the journey of Tamil Nadu’s progress.
Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, Ministers K.N. Nehru, P. Geetha Jeevan, Ma. Subramanian, and P.K. Sekarbabu, Chief Secretary N. Muruganandam, and senior officials were present. Earlier in the day, Stalin led his Council of Ministers and elected representatives in paying floral tributes to the statues of former Chief Minister C.N. Annadurai at multiple locations in Chennai.
