Tamil Nadu Launches Gold Ring Scheme for Newborns

Chennai/Madurai: Launch of the Gold Ring Initiative

On September 28, 2026, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay officially inaugurated the much-anticipated 'Thaimaman Thanga Mothiram' scheme, which translates to 'Gold Ring from Uncle', aimed at newborns. The launch took place at the Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai, where eligible newborns will receive a 1-gram gold ring made of 22-carat gold.

Gold Gift for Newborns

During the launch event, Chief Minister Vijay interacted with newborns and their families at the hospital. He held the babies in his arms and presented boxes containing gold rings to their mothers. Reports indicate that 25 newborns received a 1-gram gold ring during this statewide launch.

Understanding the 'Thaimaman Thanga Mothiram' Scheme

The term 'Thaimaman' in Tamil refers to a maternal uncle, reflecting the traditional relationship that inspired the scheme's name. According to the government, the initiative aims to celebrate the birth of newborns and promote deliveries in government health institutions.

Eligibility for the Scheme

Under this initiative, eligible children born in Tamil Nadu's government hospitals or health institutions will receive a 1-gram gold ring. As per available government information, only those born on or after June 22, 2026, will qualify, and the family must be permanent residents of Tamil Nadu.

Government's Purchase of Gold Rings

For the initial phase of the scheme, the Tamil Nadu government has procured approximately 128,000 gold rings, each weighing one gram. Reports suggest that jewelry companies have been instructed to supply these rings.

Budget Allocation for the Scheme

The Tamil Nadu government has allocated an annual budget of ₹755.83 crores for this initiative. This scheme was part of Vijay's electoral promises, which the government has now put into action.

Promoting Institutional Deliveries

The government emphasizes that the scheme's goal extends beyond providing gold rings to newborns; it also aims to strengthen maternal and child health services and encourage institutional deliveries in government hospitals. Several existing government programs already support pregnant women with health services, delivery assistance, and newborn care.

Conclusion of the 'Thaimaman Thanga Mothiram' Scheme

With the launch of the 'Thaimaman Thanga Mothiram' scheme, families of eligible newborns born in Tamil Nadu's government hospitals will now receive a 1-gram gold ring at birth. Chief Minister Vijay officially commenced the program on September 28 in Madurai.