Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has announced a significant expansion of the state's welfare programs, including broader free bus travel for women and the provision of three free LPG cooking gas cylinders annually to eligible families. These initiatives, unveiled in the Assembly, are central to the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government's electoral commitments.
Expanded Free Bus Travel for Women
Under the enhanced 'Vettri Payanam' scheme, women in Tamil Nadu will now benefit from free travel on a wider array of government bus categories. Chief Minister Vijay confirmed that there will be no income ceiling or limit on the number of trips, marking a substantial increase in accessibility.
Effective October 2, Gandhi Jayanti, the scheme will extend to Express, LSS, and Deluxe government buses in metropolitan and urban areas. For suburban and hilly regions, the benefit will apply to regular-fare buses. This expansion is projected to incur an additional annual cost of Rs 6,000 crore for the state exchequer.
Three Free LPG Cylinders Annually
In another major announcement, the Chief Minister detailed the first phase of the 'Annapoorani Super Six' scheme, a flagship promise to provide free LPG cylinders. Eligible families will receive three free cooking gas cylinders per year, with the monetary equivalent directly credited to their bank accounts. This measure aims to alleviate the financial burden of rising fuel costs on households.
The scheme is designed to benefit approximately 1.3 crore families, encompassing those with an annual income up to Rs 2.5 lakh, economically backward families, small and medium farmers, and individuals with disabilities. Preparatory work is underway, with the launch scheduled for Pongal in mid-January 2027. The government anticipates allocating Rs 4,000 crore annually for this initiative.
Parandur Airport Project Abandoned
Chief Minister Vijay also confirmed the abandonment of the controversial Parandur greenfield airport project. Citing strong opposition from local farmers and villagers concerned about land acquisition, as well as environmental concerns regarding water bodies and wetlands at the site, the government will now seek an alternative location for Chennai's second airport. The new site will be selected after thorough technical feasibility studies and a guarantee of minimal public opposition.