Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Launches Gold Ring Scheme for Newborns in Madurai
On September 28, 2026, Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay introduced the Thaimaaman Thanga Mothiram Thittam, gifting gold rings to newborns in government hospitals.
The scheme gifts a one-gram gold ring to every baby born in government hospitals in Tamil Nadu.
The initiative is retroactive, covering births from June 22, 2026.
Approximately 7.80 lakh children are born annually in Tamil Nadu, with a significant percentage in government facilities.
Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay officially launched the Thaimaaman Thanga Mothiram Thittam on September 28, 2026, at the Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai. This initiative, part of his election promises, aims to provide a one-gram gold ring to every newborn in government hospitals and primary health centers across the state. The scheme is notable for being implemented retroactively for babies born since June 22, 2026, coinciding with the Chief Minister's birthday.
During the inaugural event, CM Vijay personally presented gold rings to 37 newborns, moving through the hospital's main auditorium and the Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (CEmONC) ward. The event featured mothers from three different religions seated on stage with their children. The first three recipients of the gold rings included Yazhini, Mohammed Sainsha, and Joman, each representing diverse backgrounds.
Health Minister K.G. Arunraj highlighted the cultural significance of the scheme, stating that the maternal uncle plays a vital role in supporting families during childbirth. He emphasized that the initiative reflects this cultural bond and aims to strengthen maternal and child health in Tamil Nadu. The state has made substantial investments in medical infrastructure and support services, ensuring that 99.9% of deliveries occur in medical institutions, with a majority in government hospitals.
The scheme is expected to have a considerable impact on public health, as approximately 7.80 lakh children are born annually in Tamil Nadu, with around 4.20 lakh (53%) of these deliveries taking place in government facilities. The government has allocated Rs. 755.83 crore for the implementation of this welfare scheme this year, aiming to ease the financial burden on families and enhance trust in public health services.
In addition to the launch of the gold ring scheme, CM Vijay inaugurated the newly renovated Gandhi Memorial Museum later that day and visited the Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple for prayers. This multifaceted approach underscores the government's commitment to improving healthcare and cultural heritage in the region.
