Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has announced a package of measures aimed at supporting women and economically vulnerable families, including three free LPG cylinders annually and an expansion of fare-free bus travel.
Three free LPG cylinders every year
Under the proposed ‘Annapoorani Super Six’ scheme, eligible women heads of households will receive the cost of three LPG cylinders each year.
The scheme is expected to benefit around 1.3 crore families and is scheduled to begin from Pongal in January. The government is expected to reimburse the cylinder cost directly into the bank accounts of eligible women after booking and delivery, based on official billing from oil marketing companies.
The scheme will cover households with an annual income of up to ₹2.5 lakh, economically weaker sections, small and marginal farming families and families of differently-abled persons. The estimated annual financial commitment is around ₹4,000 crore.
Free bus travel expanded
Vijay also announced changes to the existing fare-free bus travel scheme for women. The benefit will now extend to state-run buses, including express and deluxe services.
According to the chief minister, women will not face an income ceiling or a limit on the number of journeys while using the expanded facility.
The announcements are aimed at reducing household expenses and improving women’s access to affordable public transport.
Vijay also announced that his government would drop the proposed Parandur second airport project, citing concerns over agricultural land and the livelihoods of farmers and residents. He said Chennai still requires an additional airport because of rising passenger, industrial and cargo demand, but indicated that an alternative location should minimise the impact on agricultural and residential areas.