Tamil Nadu Government Expands Free Meal Scheme to All Sanitation Workers Statewide
The Tamil Nadu government has significantly expanded its initiative to provide free meals to sanitation workers across the entire state. Chief Minister M K Stalin officially flagged off this expansion at a public function held in Tiruvallur on Monday, marking a major step in the state's welfare efforts.
Widespread Benefits for Over 1.29 Lakh Workers
This expanded scheme is set to benefit more than 1.29 lakh sanitation workers employed across all city corporations, municipalities, and town panchayats in Tamil Nadu. The program ensures that workers on all three shifts receive nutritious meals delivered in insulated, thermal carry-bags three times daily.
The government has committed to an additional annual expenditure exceeding 213 crore rupees to sustain this initiative, with a focus on maintaining healthy food standards for all beneficiaries.
Comprehensive Welfare Package Announced
In a social media post following the event, Chief Minister Stalin elaborated on the broader vision of the Dravidian model government. "Our administration is dedicated to providing comprehensive support including housing and life insurance for sanitation workers, higher education scholarships for their children, and entrepreneurial loans for aspiring individuals within this community," Stalin stated.
He further emphasized, "We will implement numerous additional welfare schemes and remain steadfast in our support for sanitation workers." The Chief Minister highlighted that this initiative represents India's first-ever scheme specifically designed to eradicate hunger among sanitation workers.
Historical Context and Expansion
The scheme was originally launched by Stalin on November 11 last year, initially targeting sanitation workers of the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC). Due to overwhelming demand from other local bodies across Tamil Nadu, government officials confirmed the decision to extend the program statewide.
During the Tiruvallur function, Stalin also distributed various forms of assistance including:
- Financial aid to children of deceased sanitation workers
- Loans to aspiring entrepreneurs from the community
- Life insurance policies for workers
- Scholarships for higher education of their children
This expansion underscores the Tamil Nadu government's commitment to enhancing the livelihoods and social security of sanitation workers, positioning it as a pioneering effort in public welfare within India.
