Chennai — tamil Nadu chief minister M.K. Stalin has reaffirmed that the Magalir Urimai Thogai (Women’s Rights Entitlement) scheme represents a firm promise and commitment to the women of tamil Nadu, and not just a routine welfare measure. He emphasised that no matter what obstacles emerge, the government will not back down from this pledge.

In a statement on February 13, 2026, stalin highlighted the importance of protecting the scheme from any attempts to halt payments due to the election period, and reiterated his confidence in the support of tamil women voters.

Advance Payments of ₹5,000 to 1.31 Crore Women

In a surprise move early on friday morning, the tamil Nadu government credited ₹5,000 directly into the bank accounts of approximately 1.31 crore women beneficiaries of the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai scheme. This transfer included:

₹3,000 as advance payments covering the entitlement for February, march and April, and

₹2,000 as a special summer relief amount — bringing the total to ₹5,000 in one transaction.

According to officials, this deposit was completed in a single day to ensure uninterrupted support — particularly in the context of the upcoming state assembly elections, where there were concerns that election rules might otherwise delay or halt regular payments.

Dravidian Model 2.0 and Future Increase to ₹2,000

As part of his address, stalin introduced the concept of “Dravidian Model 2.0”, in which the current monthly entitlement of **₹1,000 under the Magalir Urimai Thogai would be doubled to ₹2,000 if his party returns to power after the elections.

He framed this proposed increase as a core element of the next stage of welfare governance in the state, aimed at providing more substantial financial support to women heads of households across tamil Nadu.

Scheme Background: What Is Magalir Urimai Thogai?

The Magalir Urimai Thogai is a flagship welfare scheme launched by the tamil Nadu government to directly assist women who are heads of their families. Initially introduced with a monthly cash allowance of ₹1,000, the programme has since expanded to cover more than 1.31 crore women beneficiaries across the state.

Payments are transferred directly to the bank accounts of recipients, providing them with a regular source of income support meant to help with household expenses, education, healthcare and other essential needs.

Political Timing and Public Reaction

The ₹5,000 advance payment — combining three months of entitlement with a special summer benefit — came just weeks before the tamil Nadu assembly elections scheduled for later in 2026. Many observers view the move as both a welfare measure and a political outreach to women voters across the state.

Stalin directly addressed concerns about election regulations possibly affecting scheme payouts, stating that the government acted early to ensure continuity. He also reaffirmed that “this is not just assistance — it is a promise” that will be upheld regardless of political pressures.

Looking Ahead: Expanded Support Under Dravidian Model 2.0

Under the proposed Dravidian Model 2.0, the government plans to make the Magalir Urimai Thogai even more impactful by raising the monthly entitlement to ₹2,000 — potentially doubling the financial support available to women heads of households.

Stalin and other leaders argue that such expanded welfare measures are central to the state’s development model and key to improving the economic security and autonomy of millions of women across tamil Nadu.

Conclusion: A Pledge Reinforced at a Critical Moment

Chief minister M.K. Stalin’s recent announcement reinforces the Magalir Urimai Thogai scheme not merely as a welfare benefit, but as a definitive promise to the women of tamil Nadu. With the advance ₹5,000 credit and the pledge to increase monthly support under Dravidian Model 2.0, the government seeks to underline its long‑term commitment to women’s financial empowerment — and to secure their support in the forthcoming elections.

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