M.K. Stalin Launches ‘Anbu Karangal’ Scheme For Orphaned Children

In a compassionate move to secure the future of children left vulnerable by the loss of parental care, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin launched the ‘Anbu Karangal’ (Hands of Love) scheme on September 16, 2025. This welfare initiative promises monthly financial support of ₹2,000 to orphaned children, ensuring that education and basic needs are not compromised due to the absence of parental guidance. The scheme is a key part of the DMK government’s larger social security framework and is expected to directly impact thousands of children across the state. It reflects Tamil Nadu’s growing emphasis on inclusive and child-focused governance.

Scheme Details: What Is ‘Anbu Karangal’?

The ‘Anbu Karangal’ scheme is designed to benefit,

• Children who have lost both parents.
• Children with only one surviving parent who is incapable of providing care.

Key Features

• Each eligible child will receive ₹2,000 monthly.
• The aid will continue until the child completes school education or turns 18, whichever comes earlier.
• In the first phase, 6,082 children across Tamil Nadu are set to benefit.
• The financial support will be directly transferred to the beneficiaries.

The scheme is rooted in the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which mandates state governments to safeguard children who are orphaned, abandoned, or in need of care.

Additional Support for Students

In an effort to encourage higher education among orphaned students, the state also distributed,

• Laptops to 1,340 students who lost both parents, have passed Class 12, and secured admission to colleges.
• This step ensures that such students are not left behind in the digital age and can pursue academic success.

Digital Governance: Mobile App for Monitoring

To improve transparency and access, the Tamil Nadu government has launched a dedicated mobile application in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu e-Governance Agency.

App Features

• Online application submissions.
• Grievance redressal mechanism.
• Real-time monitoring and beneficiary tracking.

This digital tool is expected to streamline service delivery and reduce bureaucratic delays, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.