The Tamil Nadu government is set to expand the Chief Minister’s Thayumanavar Scheme, which provides essential commodities through ration shops to elderly citizens and persons with disabilities.Currently, nearly 20 lakh individuals aged above 70 receive doorstep ration supplies via over 34,000 Public Distribution System outlets.

Officials plan to reduce the eligibility age from 70 to 60, benefiting an additional four lakh elderly citizens, widows, and persons with disabilities.The state will also distribute 50,000 new smart ration cards, with Chief Minister C.Joseph Vijay expected to launch the initiative during his visit to Perambur.Applications for new cards were paused for six months due to the Model Code of Conduct during the 2026 Assembly election.This expansion aims to enhance accessibility and support for vulnerable groups, reflecting the government’s commitment to welfare programs.

The scheme’s focus on reducing age barriers and improving distribution highlights efforts to address social equity and ensure no citizen is left behind in accessing basic necessities.