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The Tamil Nadu government will present an eight-gram (one-sovereign) gold coin and a silk saree as ‘Annan Seer’ (Elder Brother’s Gift) to eligible women on the day of their wedding, Finance Minister Marie Wilson announced in the Assembly on Wednesday (August 5, 2026). An allocation of ₹812 crore has been made in the Revised Budget Estimates for the scheme, which was part of the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam’s (TVK) election promise.Reiterating the State government’s commitment to transforming Tamil Nadu into an elder-friendly State by ensuring a life of dignity, graceful ageing, and comprehensive social security for senior citizens, the Minister told the Legislative Assembly that an integrated home for senior citizens, equipped with essential amenities including qualified caregivers, medical personnel, and recreational facilities, will be established across all districts.Tamil Nadu Budget 2026 LIVE updates: Finance Minister Marie Wilson announces one-sovereign gold coin for brides in TVK-led govt.’s maiden BudgetIn the first year, 12 such homes will be set up in 12 districts, each accommodating 40 beneficiaries, with an allocation of ₹6.6 crore. Additionally, senior citizens’ recreation centres featuring libraries, yoga and meditation facilities, and indoor sports amenities will be established in five districts in the initial phase, selected on the basis of the population of senior citizens.Anganwadi centresThe Minister said the government will construct 500 Anganwadi centres during the current financial year, ensuring the provision of essential basic amenities such as safe drinking water, toilets, and electricity. The initiative aims to ensure that the Anganwadi centres attended by children every day provide quality early childhood care and a safe and healthy environment.Shelter homes for trans peopleTo support the transgender community in achieving socio-economic empowerment, the Minister said skill training will be provided in various income-generating trades through the Tamil Nadu Skill Development Corporation.“Along with this, subsidy-linked bank credit facilities will be extended to enable them to establish enterprises and secure sustainable livelihoods. They will also be assisted in availing themselves of bank loans for self-employment, with a subsidy of up to ₹50,000,” he said.Mr. Wilson announced the government will establish ‘Aran’ shelter homes in five districts to provide safe accommodation, food, counselling, and rehabilitation support to transgender persons facing social and family-related challenges. In addition, short-stay homes will be established in 15 districts to meet the needs of transgender persons travelling to other cities for education, employment, medical treatment, examinations, and training programmes.An allocation of ₹9,818 crore has been made for the Social Welfare and Women’s Empowerment Department. Published - August 05, 2026 01:32 pm IST
