Tamil Nadu govt. plans community-led ecotourism project in Rameswaram
The Wildlife Division, Ramanathapuram, has floated a Request for Proposal to appoint a consultant to prepare the DPR under the World Bank-assisted Tamil Nadu Sustainable Coastal Restoration project
Watch: Explained | Can religious conversion change your reservation status? | Focus Tamil Nadu
Can a change in religion affect reservation benefits? We explain the Madras High Courts ruling on Backward Class Muslim reservation, the Tamil Nadu governments appeal to the Supreme Court, and the key constitutional questions at the heart of this long-running legal dispute.
CII urges Tamil Nadu government to explore options for Chennai airport
Why Physical Education Is Becoming A Key Driver Of Attendance In Public Schools
This changing perspective is also beginning to influence education policy. Earlier this year, the Tamil Nadu government made Physical Education compulsory for students in Classes 6 to 12 across all schools in the state.
Whopping 1.2cr people watched Vijay's leaked 'Jana Nayagan': Police
The Chennai Police have revealed that a staggering 1.2 crore people watched the leaked version of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's film Jana Nayagan illegally.
Man arrested for abducting 8-year-old girl sleeping beside parents at Chennai Central
The child was safely rescued within about 30 minutes and reunited with her parents
Madras High Court Denies Relief to Former Minister Ponmudy in Controversial Remarks Case
Chennai, July 2: The Madras High Court has refused to intervene in the criminal proceedings against former Tamil Nadu minister and senior DMK leader K. Ponmudy. He faces allegations of making controversial remarks about Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and women. The court stated that the trial court can proceed with the private complaint against him. Justice GK ... Read more Madras High Court Denies Relief to Former Minister Ponmudy in Controversial Remarks Case
BJPs Vanathi Srinivasan objects to TVK leader flagging off government bus in Tenkasi district
The BJP leader urged the Tamil Nadu government to issue specific guidelines in this regard.
Vijays last film Jana Nayagan eyes July release
Chennai: If sources in the industry are to be believed, director H Vinoths eagerly awaited action entertainer Jana Nayagan, which also happens to be Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijays last film as an actor, may finally hit screens in July this year. Sources in the industry claim that the issue pertaining to receiving a clearance Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Tamil Nadu maternal health improved post-pandemic, finds IIT Madras study
A study by IIT Madras, published in the peer-reviewed journal BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, found that TNs healthcare system did not merely recover from the pandemic, but emerged stronger
The Hindu Groups Chairman, Director call on Tamil Nadu CM Vijay
Chairman N. Murali congratulated the Chief Minister on the TVKs historic victory in the 2026 Assembly elections
Re-NEET UG result by July 20; academic session to begin on time: NTA official
New Delhi , July 2 : The result of the re-National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) will be announced by July 20, a senior official at the NTA confirmed. The official did not provide an exact date but confirmed that the agency is working on a war footing to release the results soon. The official, however, assured that the academic year for MBBS students will not be delayed. The re-NEET was conducted on June 21 after the cancellation of the May 3 examination for over 20 lakh students over the alleged paper leak. We would not like to give out any date as of now, but the result will be out by July 20. Normally, the results are announced within 45 days of the examination, but this time, as we have conducted the exam in 37 days, we will announce the results much earlier, a senior NTA official told ANI during a telephonic interview. The NTA had released the provisional answer key on June 25, and candidates were given time till June 28 to challenge it. As per the official, around 10,000 challenges were received from aspirants. Now, the NTA is working to address the challenges submitted by aspirants. When asked how this process is carried out, the official said: We need to scan all the challenges one by one, examine the supporting evidence, and respond to each one of them. A fee of 200 is charged per question and is refunded if the student's challenge is found to be correct. The official also assured that, despite NEET being conducted again, the academic year will not be delayed, even though there is no clarity yet on the counselling process, which usually takes over one month. After the NEET-UG result is declared, the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) releases the counselling schedule for the 15 per cent All India Quota (AIQ), AIIMS, JIPMER, central and deemed universities, while individual states announce separate schedules for their 85 per cent state quota seats. Last year, the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) released the NEET UG 2025 counselling schedule on July 12-13, 2025, about one week after the NEET UG result was declared. The notification announced that Round 1 registration would begin on July 21, 2025, giving candidates roughly eight days to prepare for counselling. In a normal NEET year, the first-year MBBS academic session usually starts in August or September, depending on how quickly counselling concludes. The official said that this year, too, the session will begin on time. Candidates register online, pay the required counselling fee, and fill in and lock their preferred choices of colleges and courses, following which seats are allotted based on NEET rank, category, reservation norms, preferences, and seat availability. Candidates allotted seats must report to the respective colleges for document verification and admission. The counselling is conducted in multiple rounds--typically Round 1, Round 2, a Mop-up Round, and a Stray Vacancy Round--to fill all available seats before the academic session begins. States like Tamil Nadu have already started preparatory admission processes, with their Medical Selection Committee opening applications pending the NEET result. (ANI)
Heavy Rainfall Alert for Coimbatore and Nilgiri in Tamil Nadu
Chennai, July 2: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for heavy rainfall in parts of western Tamil Nadu over the next two days. This weather pattern is influenced by a low-pressure area extending from southern Gujarat to Karnataka, which is expected to bring significant rainfall to Coimbatore and Nilgiri. According to the ... Read more Heavy Rainfall Alert for Coimbatore and Nilgiri in Tamil Nadu
Vijay's 'Jana Nayagan' to release in July?
The much-anticipated action entertainer Jana Nayagan, directed by H Vinoth and starring Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay, may finally be released in July this year.
From rural Tamil Nadu to Wall Street: Chef Vijay Kumar on ringing the Nasdaq closing bell
In this exclusive essay for The Hindu, Vijay Kumar, the chef behind New Yorks Michelin-starred Semma, reflects on his journey from a village near Natham in Tamil Nadu to global recognition, and what ringing the Nasdaq closing bell meant to him and the future of Tamil cuisine
The case for equitable development in Tamil Nadu should apply to airport too: Poovulagin Nanbargal
Supporters of the Parandur airport argue that if Chennai does not get a second airport by 2028, the city and its surrounding industrial regions may lose future growth opportunities
Tamil Nadu Government Denies Irrigation Water Release Amid Lower Bhavani Dam Water Levels
Erode, July 2: The Water Resources Department (WRD) has refused to release water for irrigation from the Kalingarayan and Lower Bhavani Project (LBP) canal systems. This decision comes due to critically low water levels in the Lower Bhavani Dam and insufficient inflow from catchment areas. The department stated that water will only be released for ... Read more Tamil Nadu Government Denies Irrigation Water Release Amid Lower Bhavani Dam Water Levels
Tamil Nadu Farmers Face Severe Losses Due to Lack of Rainfall
Coimbatore, July 2: Farmers in Vadamalai, located in Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu, are struggling to save their crops due to prolonged dry spells. Large sections of flowering plants in the Thondamuthur block have started to wither. Local farmers report that insufficient rainfall during the summer, followed by a weak southwest monsoon, has led to ... Read more Tamil Nadu Farmers Face Severe Losses Due to Lack of Rainfall
Tamil Nadu CM Vijay opposes Viksit Bharat Guarantee scheme, citing Rs 5,000 crore financial burden
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has voiced strong opposition to the Centre's Viksit Bharat Guarantee scheme, citing a potential Rs 5,000 crore financial strain and operational hurdles. He urged the Prime Minister to reconsider the fund-sharing pattern and allow states more flexibility in allocating resources, arguing the current centralized approach neglects regional diversity and unpredictable agricultural needs.
Alleged Plot To Topple Vijay Government Triggers Political Slugfest In Tamil Nadu
An FIR has now been filed against DMK MLA Senthil Balaji's brother Ashok for allegedly attempting to bribe TVK MLA N Elaiyaraja.
Chief Justices Bench admits the plea challenging Section 30 of the Tamil Nadu Private Schools (Regulation) Act, 2019 and seeks State governments response
Vijay Moves Supreme Court Against Cow Slaughter Ban, Sparks Political Row
The Madras High Court on May 27 imposed a blanket ban on the slaughter of cows and calves in Tamil Nadu.
Umbrella atop chariot of Sri Narasimhar tilts during procession
Official sources in the temple said that it was a minor incident and that there was a slightly strong wind, which caused theumbrellato lose balance
Velachery residents seek cleaning of waterways ahead of heavy rain spells
Residents also sought the dredging of Adyar river mouth and removal of vegetation from Velachery Lake
T.N. is one of the leading States in voluntary blood donation: Health Minister
During 2025-2026, 9.53 lakh units of blood were collected through government and private blood banks
Tamil Nadu govt moves SC against Madras HC ban on cow slaughter
Tamil Nadu has approached the Supreme Court, challenging a Madras High Court order that prohibited cow and calf slaughter entirely. The state argues the high court's blanket ban goes beyond existing laws, which only regulate animal slaughter, not prohibit it. The government contends the original plea sought only adherence to regulations and slaughter at authorized sites, not a complete prohibition.
Tamil Nadu govt moves SC against Madras HC ban on cow slaughter
Tamil Nadu has approached the Supreme Court, challenging a Madras High Court order that prohibited cow and calf slaughter entirely. The state argues the high court's blanket ban goes beyond existing laws, which only regulate animal slaughter, not prohibit it. The government contends the original plea sought only adherence to regulations and slaughter at authorized sites, not a complete prohibition.
Hospital launches health and vax package for blood donors
Chennai metrorail ridership rebounds in June after school, colleges reopen
Man held for harassing woman, assaulting husband at KCBT
HC bins PIL moved by YouTuber against IPS officer
Metro Rail to build tunnel from Thirumayilai to Boat Club via Alwarpet in August
Two tunnel boring machines are being lowered and assembledat the Thirumayilai station as part of the work; tunnelling on the 2.2-km metro stretch was previously scheduled to begin in June
DGP launches T-shirt manufacturing unit at Puzhal prison
Three arrested for robbing jewellery shop employee
Widow threatened with sexual assault murders father-in-law
Arakkonam yard remodelling to reduce train delays
All services of Tamil Nadu Housing Board to shift online
TNs first govt-run hospice functions at Tambaram
TN may face additional Rs 5,000 crore financial burden under VBGRAMG, Vijay tells PM
Three in Four Indian Youth Report Loneliness Despite Friendships, Survey Finds
Nilgiris Landslide Risk Data Disputed as GSI, Officials Debate Assessment
Is the Nilgiris safe from landslides? Officials Say High Risk Sites Down by 50%. Environmentalists Say Numbers Dont Add Up
Cut-off marks for Tamil Nadu Engineering Admissions drop this year, 52 students get perfect score
Left leaders skip meeting of TVKs `friendly parties, call on Vijay
Tamil Nadu targets DIY births, pushes for criminal proceedings
Tangedco under scanner, again: AG letter forged to release 15 cr to firm
Forest staff provided with modern weapons and vehicles to enhance protection
Stage set for TVK-led political front, CM Vijay will announce name of front soon
DMK Calls for Investigation into Alleged Bribery of Legislators in Tamil Nadu
Chennai, July 1: The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has urged Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar to intervene in a case involving alleged bribery aimed at persuading two legislators from the Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) to resign. The party has requested an investigation by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC). DMKs organizational secretary, ... Read more DMK Calls for Investigation into Alleged Bribery of Legislators in Tamil Nadu
Radical tender reforms in TN to improve participation, break cartels
Tenders Open To Youth, Women, SC/ST Individuals
Wheels India stays on investment path with 300-crore FY27 capex
Tamil Nadu housing minister pushes online sale of houses and plots
The court said the resorts functioned without proper authorisation and posed a threat to the ecological balance of the protected area.
3 arrested: DMK, TVK accuse each other of poaching
Four held for kidnapping bizman, say he defrauded them of nearly 8,000cr
DMK Demands FIR Against Alleged Unauthorized Access in Tamil Nadu Cabinet Meetings
Chennai, July 1: The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has called for criminal action against two alleged close associates of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay. The party has urged the states Director General of Police (DGP) to file a First Information Report (FIR) regarding their purported involvement in cabinet meetings and other confidential government ... Read more DMK Demands FIR Against Alleged Unauthorized Access in Tamil Nadu Cabinet Meetings
Anbumani Ramadoss calls for pro-jallikattu type protests against Karnatakas Mekedatu dam move
Anbumani launched a public awareness march from Biligundlu -- the entry point of the Cauvery river in Tamil Nadu -- to highlight what he said were the dangers posed by Karnatakas move to construct a dam at Mekedatu.
Vels Medical College & Hospital , a constituent institution of Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies (VISTAS), successfully organized MED-AI Summit 2026 – Innovation to Impact, an International Conference on Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, from 25 to 27 June 2026 at its campus in Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu. Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, inaugurates MED-AI Summit 2026 at VMCH along with Dr. Sujoy Kar Held under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, Founder & Chancellor, VISTAS, the three-day international summit brought together leading clinicians, medical researchers, academicians, healthcare professionals, AI experts, technologists, policymakers, and industry leaders from India and abroad to explore how Artificial Intelligence is transforming the future of healthcare. The conference served as a global knowledge-sharing platform, focusing on AI-powered diagnostics, digital healthcare, predictive analytics, clinical decision support systems, precision medicine, intelligent medical education, biomedical research, and next-gzzeneration healthcare technologies. Through keynote lectures, scientific sessions, panel discussions, workshops, oral presentations, poster sessions, and networking opportunities, participants gained valuable insights into the rapidly evolving landscape of AI-enabled healthcare. The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President – Vels Group of Institutions, with Dr. Sujoy Kar, Chief Medical Information Officer & Vice President, Apollo Hospitals, serving as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sujoy Kar, Chief Medical Information Officer & Vice President, Apollo Hospitals, appreciated the visionary initiatives of Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, Founder & Chancellor, VISTAS, particularly the institution's commitment to providing free medical treatment to nearly 200 villagers in the surrounding communities through its healthcare outreach programmes. Emphasizing the future of medicine, Dr. Kar remarked that " Doctors must lead Artificial Intelligence, not be led by it ." He urged young medical professionals to learn both the language of medicine and the language of AI, enabling them to harness technology responsibly for better patient care. He further encouraged students and faculty to devote more time to active research, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, stating that research will be the driving force behind the next generation of healthcare advancements. Expressing his enthusiasm for future collaborations, Dr. Kar said, " Apollo Hospitals looks forward to working closely with VELS. Together, we can strengthen research, innovation, and AI-driven healthcare for the benefit of society ." Distinguished dignitaries present included Dr. S. Asokan, Chief Executive Officer, GEM Hospitals, Chennai; Dr. Kumudha Lingaraj, Dean, Vels Medical College & Hospital; Dr. Prince J. Samuel, Vice Principal (Academics); Dr. Maignana Kumar, Vice Principal (Accreditations); and Dr. Vijayashree R., Professor & Head, Department of Pathology and Organizing Chairperson, MED-AI Summit 2026. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from senior faculty members, researchers, healthcare professionals, students, and delegates representing premier institutions across the country. Adding significant international value to the summit were globally acclaimed experts including Dr. Waqar M. Naqvi, Founder & Research Lead, AD Vivum Education & Research, Doha, Qatar, and Dr. Priyah Prathaban, Associate Professor, Faculty of Medicine, AIMST University, Malaysia. The conference also featured an impressive lineup of distinguished national experts including Dr. T. V. Geetha (Anna University, Chennai), Dr. Kalavathy Moses S. (SIMS Hospital, Chennai), Dr. C. N. Srinivas (Sukraa Software Solutions), Dr. Madhuvanthi Mohan (Rajan Eye Care, Chennai), Dr. S. Asokan (GEM Hospitals), Dr. Sudha Jasmine Rajan (Christian Medical College, Vellore), Dr. D. C. Mathangi (Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai), Dr. S. Rajendiran (Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research, Kolar), and Mr. Venkata Phanidhar Nelluri, who shared their expertise on AI applications in surgery, pathology, ophthalmology, laboratory medicine, medical education, biomedical research, and critical care. The summit witnessed exceptional participation throughout all three days. The pre-conference hands-on workshops conducted on 25 June 2026 attracted 333 participants across seven clinical departments, highlighting the growing interest in AI-driven clinical learning. The scientific conference held on 26 and 27 June 2026 recorded 447 delegates each day, comprising faculty members, undergraduate and postgraduate students, clinicians, researchers, healthcare professionals, and industry representatives from leading medical colleges, hospitals, universities, and research institutions across India. MED-AI Summit 2026 featured seven pre-conference workshops, nine scientific sessions, the prestigious Velan Oration Lecture, oral and poster presentations, award-winning research paper sessions, panel discussions, and collaborative networking opportunities, making it one of the most comprehensive AI-focused healthcare conferences hosted by a medical institution in the region. During the conference, speakers emphasized that Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping modern medicine by improving diagnostic accuracy, strengthening clinical decision-making, enhancing patient outcomes, accelerating medical research, and transforming healthcare delivery. They also underscored the importance of ethical, responsible, and evidence-based integration of AI technologies to complement clinical expertise while maintaining patient safety and trust. Speaking about the significance of the summit, the organizers reiterated that Vels Medical College & Hospital remains committed to creating an ecosystem that promotes innovation, interdisciplinary research, technology-enabled medical education, and collaborative healthcare solutions. The institution continues to invest in academic excellence while preparing future healthcare professionals to lead in the era of digital medicine and Artificial Intelligence. MED-AI Summit 2026 stands as yet another milestone in the journey of Vels Medical College & Hospital towards becoming a nationally and internationally recognized centre for medical education, clinical excellence, healthcare innovation, and cutting-edge research. By bringing together globally renowned experts, leading academicians, clinicians, researchers, students, and industry pioneers, the summit has strengthened Vels Medical College & Hospital's reputation as a destination for transformative medical learning and AI-driven healthcare innovation, paving the way for future collaborations that will shape the next generation of intelligent heaalthcare. velsmedicalcollege.com .
Under VB-G RAM-G scheme, which comes into force with effect from July 1, the States contribution has been increased to 40%. The Centre reducing its contribution for the Centrally-sponsored programmes will lead to fiscal strain on Tamil Nadu, he said.
The current two-year licences were issued in January 2024. Although they were due to expire in January this year, they were extended until the end of June in view of the assembly elections.
Foreign Medical Graduates allowed to take up CRMI in 36 non-teaching hospitals in Tamil Nadu
This has fulfilled a long-pending demand of hundreds of FMGs, who had passed the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination and were waiting for the mandatory CRMI.
Tamil Nadu government moves Supreme Court against cow slaughter ban
The Tamil Nadu government has moved the Supreme Court challenging a Madras High Court order that imposed a statewide blanket ban on the slaughter of cows and calves. The order was passed on May 27 by the Division Bench of Justice GR Swaminathan and Justice V Lakshminarayanan while hearing a Public Interest Litigation filed by [] The post Tamil Nadu government moves Supreme Court against cow slaughter ban appeared first on India Legal .
CPI(M), CPI leaders meet Tamil Nadu CM Vijay, press various demands
The TVK-led Tamil Nadu government, before tabling a resolution in the Assembly on Mekedatu issue, should have called an all-party meeting to take the issue forward, said CPI(M) leader P. Shanmugam
Tamil Nadu Government Challenges Madras High Courts Ban on Cow Slaughter in Supreme Court
New Delhi, July 1: The Tamil Nadu government has filed a challenge in the Supreme Court against a Madras High Court order that mandated an immediate ban on cow slaughter across the state, enforcing a 1976 government directive. The special leave petition (SLP) submitted by the Secretary of the Animal Husbandry Department is currently listed ... Read more Tamil Nadu Government Challenges Madras High Courts Ban on Cow Slaughter in Supreme Court
Former Tamil Nadu Minister C. Vijayabaskar Joins Tamilga Vetrikazhagam, Marks New Political Chapter
Chennai, July 1: C. Vijayabaskar, the former Health Minister of Tamil Nadu and ex-MLA from AIADMK, has officially announced his decision to join the Tamilga Vetrikazhagam (TVK) led by Chief Minister Vijay. This move is seen as a significant political victory for the ruling party, which has been successfully attracting senior opposition leaders. The joining ... Read more Former Tamil Nadu Minister C. Vijayabaskar Joins Tamilga Vetrikazhagam, Marks New Political Chapter
Tamil Nadu moves SC over Madras HC cow slaughter ban order
New Delhi: The Tamil Nadu government has moved the Supreme Court against the Madras High Court order imposing a blanket ban on the slaughter of cows and calves in the state. In its plea, the Tamil Nadu government challenged the May 27 order of the High Court, which directed the chief secretary and the director Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Toxic Foam Crisis in South Pennai River Raises Alarm Among Farmers
Chennai, July 1: Toxic foam accumulating in the South Pennai River near the Kelavarapalli Dam has raised serious concerns among farmers in Krishnagiri district. They are urging the Tamil Nadu and Karnataka governments to jointly investigate the pollution sources and take immediate corrective actions. The foam has been visible in the river for nearly a ... Read more Toxic Foam Crisis in South Pennai River Raises Alarm Among Farmers
TNEA 2026 Rank list released: Tamil Nadu's engineering admissions for 2026 have seen a highly competitive year, with 53 students scoring a perfect 200. The TNEA rank list, featuring over 2.36 lakh candidates, was released on July 1st, marking the end of merit preparation. This paves the way for the crucial counselling and seat allotment stages for aspiring engineers across the state. Aspirants should monitor the official portal for further details.
Tamil Nadu govt moves Supreme Court against Madras High Court order banning cow slaughter
Tamil Nadu has approached the Supreme Court challenging a Madras High Court order that imposed a complete ban on cow and calf slaughter. The state argues the high court's directive contradicts the Tamil Nadu Animal Preservation Act, 1958, which allows slaughter of older, unfit cattle under specific conditions. The high court's ban was issued following a Public Interest Litigation.
Tamil Nadu Engineering Admissions (TNEA) 2026 rank list is out, featuring over 2.36 lakh students. Fifty-three candidates achieved a perfect 200 cut-off in the academic stream, with Aksitha S topping the list. Counselling for special categories begins July 13, followed by general online counselling from July 20. Top scores were also recorded in vocational streams, highlighting intense competition for engineering seats.
Tamil Nadu Govt Moves SC Against Madras HC Order Banning Cow Slaughter
The high court order was based on a 1976 order, which prohibited cow slaughter in the interest of milk production and improvement of rural economy
The TNEA Rank List 2026 has been released for 2,36,017 engineering aspirants, with Akshitha N of Dharmapuri securing the top rank and 53 candidates achieving a perfect 200 cut-off. Special category counselling will be held on July 1314, followed by online counselling from July 20 to 30 for admissions across Tamil Nadu.
TNEA rank list 2026 expected to be released today at tneaonline.org: Check complete details here
The TNEA Rank List 2026 is scheduled to be released on July 1 after being postponed from June 29 to incorporate revised CBSE re-evaluation marks. Prepared on a standardized 200-mark scale, the merit list will determine candidates' eligibility and ranking for engineering counselling and seat allotment across Tamil Nadu. Candidates can check their ranks on the official TNEA portal.
Rane Madras to buy HCL friction biz for Rs 370cr
Sanmar scales up engineering JVs as it prepares for capex revival
EV sales stay on fast track in June; E2W sales cross 5 lakh in Q1
Indias Elderly Citizens Need Compassion
As Indias senior citizen population continues to grow, the need for comprehensive support systems for elderly care will become increasingly important A civilized society is not defined only by the opportunities it creates for the young, the ambitious and the able-bodied. It is also defined by the protection it extends to its senior citizens who have once contributed towards the building of the nation and now require support beyond the normal family structures. In that sense, the Atal Vayo Abhyudaya Yojana is more than a welfare scheme; it is a statement about the kind of country India wants to become. As per the estimates, the population of the countrys senior citizens was approx. 10 Crores in 2011 and is projected to rise to 23 Crores in 2036. The traditional family structures are transforming the country. Migration, emergence of nuclear families, smaller households, increasing life expectancies and changes in the informal support structures are a few of the key factors that are contributing towards the development of the policy framework based on the principles of Ageing with Dignity. A framework that must provide practical, accessible and sustained support. This is where AVYAY is making an important contribution. It adopts a holistic, comprehensive and humane approach toward the elderly welfare. While schemes for senior citizens have existed earlier as well, AVYAY signals a shift from fragmented welfare measures towards building an ecosystem of dignity, care and empowerment. One of the strongest pillars of AVYAY is the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens, which supports senior citizen homes, continuous care homes, mobile medical units and physiotherapy units across the country. For thousands of elderly persons abandoned or left without support, these centres have become more than shelters they have become spaces of belonging. Take the example of 71-year-old Smt. M. Balasundari from Tamil Nadu. After the untimely demise of her husband, who worked as a tailor, she faced severe financial and emotional hardships. Her only son, who suffers from an eye problem, struggled to support the family. Owing to difficult circumstances and lack of adequate care at home, she was admitted to Ambujam Home for Senior Citizens, Nagapattinam District, under the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC) in November 2024. When she arrived at the Home, she was anxious, lonely and deeply worried about her sons future. Through regular counselling, social interaction and participation in community activities, she gradually regained her confidence and emotional well-being. Today, she actively participates in gardening, yoga and spiritual activities, and enjoys a dignified and fulfilling life. Her son visits her regularly, providing emotional support and strengthening family bonds. The Home has provided her with free shelter, nutritious food, healthcare, recreational facilities and a safe environment. Her story demonstrates how institutional care and compassionate support under IPSrC can restore dignity, security and happiness to senior citizens facing difficult circumstances. Equally transformative has been the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana, under which assistive devices are distributed free of cost to economically weaker senior citizens suffering from age-related disabilities. More than 46 lakh devices have been given to the 8.43 lakh beneficiaries. For many beneficiaries, a wheelchair, hearing aid or walking stick may appear to be a small intervention but in reality, it restores independence. In Koraput, Odhisha, 75-year-old Lalita Paik struggled with the activities of daily living. She had severe mobility issues, including difficulty in walking, needed support for standing and was suffering from low back pain & knee pain. Through the RVY scheme, she received a wheelchair and walking support. Her family members say the assistance changed her daily life, enabling her to move independently and participate once again in community activities. Such interventions demonstrate how welfare schemes can directly improve quality of life when implemented effectively. An important aspect of the RVY is the creation of the Pradhan Mantri Divyasha-Vayoshri Kendras (PMD-VKs). Aids and Assistive devices are being distributed through the Walk-In Mode to the eligible senior citizens through these Kendras. Perhaps the most significant and timely initiative under AVYAY is Elderline (14567) the national helpline for senior citizens. In a society where loneliness among the elderly often remains invisible, the helpline has become an emotional and social lifeline. The fact that over 29 lakh calls have already been received is both encouraging and concerning: encouraging because support systems are reaching people, and concerning because it reveals the scale of distress among senior citizens. There have been numerous instances where Elderline has intervened to rescue abandoned elderly persons, reconnect them with families, or provide urgent medical and emotional assistance. One case is of Sh. Anantlal Rajak. Sh. Anant Lal, 70 years old, was suffering from Dementia and unknowingly reached to Pune Railway Station. He was in an abandoned condition and could not recall anything. The Elderline team in Maharashtra successfully reunited Sh. Anantlal Rajak with his family in Patna, Bihar. Timely intervention from the Elderline reportedly helped to prevent a far more serious crisis. At the same time, Indias ageing challenge is not only a welfare issue it is also an economic opportunity. Under the PM-SPECIAL component of the AVYAY Scheme, more than 35,000 trainees have been trained as Geriatric Caregivers. The governments initiative to train geriatric caregivers reflects an important recognition that the care economy will become one of the largest employment sectors in the future. By training thousands of youth in elderly caregiving, India is simultaneously addressing unemployment and the growing demand for professional eldercare services. As Indias senior citizen population continues to grow, the need for comprehensive support systems for elderly care will become increasingly important. This presents an opportunity to further strengthen and expand the initiatives already underway under the Atal Vayo Abhyudaya Yojana. The scheme has established a strong foundation for promoting dignity, care and well-being among senior citizens, while also creating pathways for greater community participation and support. As India advances on its development journey, AVYAY offers a valuable framework for ensuring that every senior citizen can lead a life of dignity, security and active participation in society. (The Author is Secretary, Department of Social Justice & Empowerment, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Govt. of India)
V. Sripathy, a 23-year-old from a remote Tamil Nadu village, achieved a historic feat by clearing the civil judge examination just two days after giving birth. Battling limited infrastructure and societal expectations, her journey from a farmer's daughter to the first civil judge from her tribal community exemplifies extraordinary grit and the power of education. Her determination inspires countless young women, proving that dreams can overcome significant obstacles.
AIADMK rebels reject EPSs postings
Private industries in defence sector have big potential: official
Rainfall to dip in T.N. over the next few days
IMD predicts above average day temperatures across most parts of the State in July
A Tamil Nadu doctor travelling with his family in Italy during Europe's ongoing heatwave said the weather felt worse than in India despite lower temperatures. He pointed to the lack of widespread air conditioning as the biggest difference, while experts say Europe's infrastructure, built for colder climates, is increasingly being tested by more frequent and intense heatwaves.
TN can triple defence electronics output to 37,000 cr by 2040: DRDO
Mental health fest in city to spotlight youth voices
Choolaimedu residents urge sewer upgrade, improved connectivity at MLA meeting
