CM Stalin launches ‘Anbukkarangal’ programme for education of orphaned children in Tamil Nadu

The DMK government treats power as a responsibility, and views its authority as a means to work for the welfare of ordinary people, said Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Monday (September 15, 2025). On the occasion of the birth anniversary of former Chief Minister C.N. Annadurai, Mr. Stalin launched the ‘Anbukkarangal’ programme, which provides financial aid for the education of orphaned children or those who have lost one parent, until they turn 18.

In the first phase, a total of 6,082 children will receive a monthly aid of ₹2,000 each until they complete their school education. The initiative is part of the Tamil Nadu government’s ‘Thayumanavar’ programme, which aims to identify and support the livelihoods of those living in poverty.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Stalin said: “Many believe politics is about coming to power, clinging to the craze for ‘the post’ while overlooking the responsibilities that come with it, implementing a few populist programmes, and then gearing up for the next election. But for us, the foundation is: ‘responsibility, not just the post.’ Authority exists so that we can work for the welfare of ordinary people.”

Listing out various welfare measures of his government, such as the Chief Minister’s Breakfast Scheme, providing financial aid to persons with disabilities and transgender persons, and granting aid to children who lost their parents during the COVID-19 pandemic, among others, Mr. Stalin asked: “Are these for vote bank politics? No. How are they related to vote bank politics? Votes symbolise the confidence of the people we have won over.”

The responsibility that comes with the confidence of the people is an opportunity to uplift the most marginalised in society, Mr. Stalin contended. He said the DMK government is using its authority to bring about the changes necessary for the people and society. “Politics is about serving the people. It is hard work. As far as we are concerned, there is no place for luxury here.”

Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, Ministers K.N. Nehru, P. Geetha Jeevan, Ma. Subramanian, and P.K. Sekarbabu, Chief Secretary N. Muruganandam, and senior officials were present. Earlier in the day, Mr. Stalin led his Council of Ministers and elected representatives in paying floral tributes to the statues of former Chief Minister C.N. Annadurai at multiple locations in Chennai.