Tamil Nadu’s achievement in total fertility rate of 1.4 is a significant milestone in population stabilisation: Geetha Jeevan

According to Elderly in India, 2021 report released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Tamil Nadu is in the second position among States in terms of highest proportion of elderly population with 13.6%. This is projected to rise to 18.2% in 2031. What measures has the government undertaken for geriatric care in the State?

The Tamil Nadu government has been actively taking several measures towards geriatric care. We have released the Tamil Nadu State Policy on Senior Citizens, which lays out a clear roadmap for elderly welfare. Every district is being provided with at least one government-supported old age home and integrated campuses for children and elderly are also being developed. A new scheme ‘Anbucholai,’ a dedicated day care centre for senior citizens will soon be launched by the Chief Minister. As many as 24 centres in 13 districts have been planned in partnership with NGOs, with facilities for transportation, food and recreational activities. Alongside, the Health Department is also taking various measures to strengthen geriatric care across the State.

There are concerns about quality of care being provided at Children’s homes. What reforms are being implemented to ensure accountability of childcare institutions; and safety and psychological well being of the inmates?

We have been regularly reviewing this. From 2021 to 2023 over 600 children’s homes that did not adhere to regulations were closed. Regular inspections are conducted at every centre and mandatory counselling sessions are held. These sessions have provided children with opportunities to openly share challenges they face. Previously schools were located within the campuses of many government homes. We have instructed them to close in- house schools and ensure children attend nearby government schools, with transportation facilities. This helps children get accustomed to the wider environment and interact with new people.

We have also implemented the ‘Anbu Karangal’ scheme, which aims to create a family environment for children, where we are guiding the parent or guardian to take care of the children at home. To prevent untoward incidents, protocols and inspections will be further strengthened to ensure better outcomes.

Tamil Nadu has been a pioneer in implementing schemes and welfare measures for transgenders. Can you highlight the initiatives taken for social inclusion, education and livelihood?

In 2008 then Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi established the first dedicated Transgender Welfare Board in India, which encouraged many transgenders to come out confidently in public life. The social welfare department has also partnered with many departments including higher education and revenue to frame policies, ensure their access to higher education and housing.

For the past four years, the government has been providing a subsidy for ₹50,000 to set up business. Additionally, we are establishing a home in Chennai and Madurai in the name ‘Aran’, which will soon be inaugurated by the Chief Minister. These homes will serve as immediate shelter for transgenders who have left their homes, enabling them to continue their education and work. Depending on the demand, the initiative will be expanded to other areas.

Tamil Nadu’s total fertility rate is reported to be 1.4 which is lower than the replacement level of 2.1. What factors contributed to this decline, and how has the State ensured awareness about population control measures?

Indeed, Tamil Nadu’s achievement in total fertility rate of 1.4, below the replacement level of 2.1 is a significant milestone in population stabilisation. The success is largely attributed to the State’s focus on education and awareness. As literacy rates and general awareness have improved, people are better informed about benefits of smaller families, maternal and child health and reproductive health. Moreover, the State has consistently invested in accessible healthcare facilities, contraceptive services and counselling programmes, ensuring the citizens have both the knowledge and the means to make informed choices.

What are the impacts of flagship schemes such as Kalaignar Women’s Rights Grants, Pudumai Penn? How is the success of these schemes measured beyond the number of beneficiaries and what quantitative results have been achieved in poverty reduction or educational attainment?

These initiatives have increased the savings among the women and students. In case of Kalaignar Women’s Rights Grants, the support is provided to needy women, whose income is less than ₹2.5 lakh per annum. This has decreased the number of people below the poverty line and their livelihood has been improved. Similarly, the Pudumai Penn and Tamil Pudalvan scheme have increased college enrolment rates. Apart from this, the Chief Minister has also directed surveys to verify the funds provided through these schemes are utilised for intended purpose. These measures have shown significant, measurable results in improving both educational and economic stability among beneficiaries.