Tamil Nadu to Raise Income Limit for Women’s Basic Income Scheme!
The Tamil Nadu government is expected to increase the annual income ceiling for eligibility under the ‘Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai’ scheme from Rs. 2.5 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh. Launched by Chief Minister MK Stalin, this women`s basic income scheme will celebrate its first anniversary on September 15, when changes to the scheme are likely to be announced.
For 2024, the government has allocated Rs. 13,722 crores to the scheme, which aims to support 1,37,20,200 women. However, currently, only about 1,16,50,000 women are receiving financial assistance. The eligibility criteria include an annual family income of Rs. 2.5 lakh or less, ownership of less than 5 acres of wetland or 10 acres of dry land, and household electricity consumption below 3,600 units per year. These criteria have faced criticism from opposition parties for being too restrictive.
Chief Minister Stalin is expected to return from the US on September 14, and an official notification about the changes to the scheme is anticipated the next day. The adjustments may include expanded eligibility criteria and an increased number of beneficiaries.
