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Tamil Nadu's SHG Revolution: Women Get Free 100km Bus Travel to Sell Products

Tamil Nadu has introduced a groundbreaking initiative allowing women SHG members to travel up to 100 kilometers free on government buses. This move aims to help women entrepreneurs sell their products more effectively across districts. The state continues to lead in women-centric welfare programs with massive participation in existing schemes. These initiatives are now inspiring other states like Punjab and Telangana to implement similar programs.

Key Points: Udhayanidhi Stalin Announces Free Bus Travel for Women SHG Members

  • Women SHG members can travel 100km free on government buses using ID cards
  • Foundation laid for Rs 18 crore projects in Vellore development initiative
  • Over 820 crore women bus journeys completed under Magalir Vidiyal scheme
  • 20 lakh children benefited from Tamil Nadu's pioneering Breakfast Scheme
2 min read

'Women SHG members can travel up to 100 km free by govt buses': Udhayanidhi Stalin launches welfare initiatives

Tamil Nadu Deputy CM launches welfare initiatives including free 100km bus travel for women SHG members to sell their products, empowering women entrepreneurs statewide.

"Tamil Nadu is the first state in India to issue ID cards to Women Self-Help Groups - Udhayanidhi Stalin"

Vellore, November 4

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin announced that women members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) can now travel up to 100 kilometres by government buses free of cost to sell their products using their ID cards.

Speaking at a government function held at the Vellore Fort Grounds, the Deputy Chief Minister said that Tamil Nadu has become a model state in implementing welfare schemes that empower women and uplift the underprivileged.

During the event, Udhayanidhi laid the foundation stone for new development projects worth Rs 18 crore and inaugurated completed works valued at Rs 12 crore. On behalf of various government departments, welfare assistance worth Rs 415 crore was distributed to over 49,000 beneficiaries.

"Vellore is a district of great historical and cultural importance. The Vellore Fort, which houses the Jalakandeswarar Temple, a church, and a mosque, stands as a symbol of communal harmony worldwide. The people of Vellore are known for their secular outlook, a spirit that must prevail across India," the Deputy CM said.

Referring to various flagship welfare schemes of the DMK government, he said that since Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin assumed office in 2021, several special programmes focusing on women's empowerment have been implemented.

"Through the Magalir Vidiyal scheme (Women's Free Bus Travel) scheme, women have undertaken over 820 crore bus journeys. Under the Breakfast Scheme, 20 lakh children have benefited so far. Inspired by this, the Chief Minister of Punjab has announced plans to introduce a similar programme in his state," Udhayanidhi said.

"Likewise, under the Thamizh Pudhalvan and Pudhumai Penn schemes, more than 8 lakh students are benefitting. The Chief Minister of Telangana has also expressed interest in replicating these initiatives," he added.

Nearly 19 lakh people across the state have been provided free housing site pattas.

"Tamil Nadu is the first state in India to issue ID cards to Women Self-Help Groups. Using this ID, members can travel up to 100 kilometres by government buses to sell products made by women, up to a weight of 25 kilograms," the Deputy CM said.

Vellore District Collector Subbulakshmi, along with local MPs, MLAs, and representatives of local bodies, participated in the event.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great move by the TN government! Other states should definitely take note. When women get support like this, entire families benefit. The 25kg weight limit is practical too.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has worked with rural women entrepreneurs, I can say this is exactly the kind of practical support that makes a real difference. The free travel removes a major barrier to market access.
K
Karthik V
While I appreciate the initiative, I hope the government ensures proper implementation. Sometimes these schemes sound good on paper but face practical challenges. Hope they monitor it closely.
M
Meera T
Tamil Nadu is really leading the way in women's empowerment! From free bus travel to breakfast schemes, these are the kind of policies that actually change lives. More power to our women entrepreneurs! 💪
D
David E
It's impressive to see how Tamil Nadu's welfare schemes are inspiring other states. When good policies work, they create a ripple effect across the country. This is true cooperative federalism in action.

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