Vijay's big freebie push: 3 LPG cylinders, expanded free bus travel for women
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay on Monday announced three free LPG cylinders a year for families with an annual income below Rs 2.5 lakh, along with expanded free bus travel for women and free bus rides for transgender persons.
Unveiling a fresh set of welfare measures in the Assembly, Vijay said the 'Annapoorani Super Six' scheme would be launched from Pongal 2027.
Under the scheme, eligible families will receive the cost of three LPG cylinders directly in their bank accounts every year.
The initiative is expected to benefit around 1.30 crore families and cost the state government approximately Rs 4,000 crore annually.
Vijay cited rising LPG prices and shortages linked to the prevailing conflict in the Gulf region as factors adding to the financial burden on households.
"Keeping this in mind, even during a financially constrained situation, in order to lighten the financial burden on the public, protect their welfare, and fulfil the promise made to the people," the Chief Minister said the government had decided to reimburse the amount spent on cooking gas cylinders.
BJP attacks government over LPG promise
The announcement comes after Vijay had promised six free LPG cylinders a year during the run-up to the May Assembly election.
The BJP criticised Monday's announcement, accusing the Chief Minister of "deceiving" the people of Tamil Nadu.
Free bus travel expanded for women
Vijay also announced an expansion of the 'Vettri Payana Thittam' free travel scheme for women.
Under the expanded programme, women will be able to travel free on Express, LSS and Deluxe government buses, in addition to ordinary services. The benefit will also cover eligible inter-district services.
The expanded scheme will take effect from October 2, coinciding with Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary.
The existing programme allowed women free travel primarily on ordinary and hilly-route buses, with restrictions on Express, LSS, Deluxe and certain suburban services.
The expansion is expected to cost the state government an additional Rs 6,000 crore annually.
Vijay also announced free bus travel for transgender persons.
Vijay reaffirms opposition to Parandur Airport
The Chief Minister also reiterated his government's decision not to proceed with the proposed Parandur airport project near Chennai, which has faced opposition from farmers and local residents.
Vijay said the government stood with families likely to be affected by the project and was examining alternative locations.
He said the new airport should be located in a way that minimises the impact on farmland and avoids large-scale displacement of residential areas.
New terminal 5 at Chennai airport
Vijay further announced that a new Terminal 5 would be constructed at the existing Chennai airport in Meenambakkam.
The government is also examining alternative sites for the proposed new airport, with several potential locations reportedly identified.
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