Tamil Nadu set to give Rs 2,000 to 60 lakh BPL families

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on Monday announced special assistance of Rs 2,000 each to about 60 lakh Below Poverty Line (BPL) families across the state, keeping in mind the impact of Gaja cyclone as well as the prevailing drought.

Making a suo motto statement in the assembly, Palaniswami said the proposal was part of the state government's efforts to ensure inclusive growth. "Considering the impact of Gaja cyclone in many districts as well as the drought, the special assistance is being provided," he said.

The scheme is expected to reach out to 35 lakh families in villages and 25 lakh urban poor families, he read out in the assembly.

"For all families below poverty line in Tamil Nadu, especially farm workers, the urban poor, labourers in the sector of fireworks, fishing, power and handlooms, construction and other industries, this government will provide special financial assistance of Rs 2,000 a family," he said.

Palaniswami's announcement on Monday follows an earlier dole of Rs 1,000 to every ration card-holder around Pongal festival, a decision that was challenged in court and later cleared.

The Tamil Nadu government had launched a no-new-taxes budget last week, making significant allocations towards agriculture, urban development and education but stopped short of announcing doles, as was expected ahead of elections.

The AIADMK-led government in the state had also been critical of the delay in release of funds from the Centre, evidenced in Tamil Nadu's references to the delays in its budget for FY 2019-20.