Chennai, February 14, 2026: Ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has unveiled a bold scheme aimed at women voters, reminiscent of successful welfare initiatives in other states like Bihar and Jharkhand. Under the new announcement, 1.31 crore women in the state will receive ₹5,000 each in their bank accounts, combining monthly assistance under the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai scheme with special summer support.
CM Stalin’s Appeal to Women
The Chief Minister stated that if the DMK returns to power, the monthly assistance will be increased from ₹1,000 to ₹2,000. An additional ₹2,000 will be provided to cover summer expenses, bringing the total to ₹5,000. Stalin, in a video message on the social media platform X, urged women to utilize the funds for children’s education, medicines, and essential household expenses.
“This initiative aims at women’s financial empowerment and welfare,” Stalin said, emphasizing that the scheme will be strengthened if DMK continues in office.
Opposition Criticism
The main opposition, AIADMK, led by Edappalli Palaniswami, criticized the “Special Summer Grant,” calling it a voter-influencing measure rather than genuine welfare. Actor Vijay echoed similar concerns, suggesting the announcement reflects the ruling party’s fear of electoral defeat.
In the 2021 Assembly elections, DMK had secured 133 out of 234 seats, defeating AIADMK, which won 66 seats. With actor Vijay’s party now entering the electoral fray, a split in votes is expected, making the contest highly competitive.
Proven Strategy in Other States
Such targeted welfare schemes have historically influenced electoral outcomes in several states:
- In Jharkhand, the Mukhyamantri Samman Yojana aided JMM’s return to power.
- In Maharashtra, the Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana contributed to Mahayuti’s success.
- In Bihar, under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rozgar Yojana, women received ₹10,000 each to promote self-employment, a move credited with boosting support.
- In Madhya Pradesh, the Ladli Bahen Yojana helped BJP consolidate votes for Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
- In West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee increased the monthly allowance under the Lakshmi Bhandar scheme by ₹500 and announced unemployment benefits.
With this announcement, Stalin hopes to replicate these successes in Tamil Nadu, combining welfare with strategic electoral outreach.
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