
Tamil Nadu’s Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thoga (2023): A State-Level Women’s Cash-Transfer Programme
Tamil Nadu has a long tradition of universal welfare measures, from subsidised food and health care to free electricity and education support. Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai Thittam extends this legacy by placing a regular cash income directly in women’s hands. Announced as part of the DMK’s “seven guarantees” (Business Standard, 2024) before the 2021 Assembly elections and formally launched on 15 September 2023 (the birth anniversary of former Chief Minister C.N. Annadurai), the scheme promises ₹1,000 per month to eligible women heads of households (Government of Tamil Nadu Official portal. https://kmut.tn.gov.in/; The Hindu, 2023).






