Jaya launches old age pension scheme

Chennai, June 6: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa today (June 6) formally launched an old age pension scheme here today as part of fulfilling the AIADMK government's poll promises.

The Chief Minister presented the amount to seven beneficiaries at a function at the secretariat, an official press release here said. It said the scheme would benefit 23.65 lakh people in the state.

Soon after assuming office on May 16,Jayalalithaa had issued orders to give effect to her major poll promises, including doubling old age pension from Rs 500 to Rs 1000, 20 kg of free rice to cardholders and 35 kg to BPL families,four gram gold for mangalsutra for girls getting married and increasing aid to fishermen from Rs 1000 to Rs 2000 in the fishing ban period

Another release said Jayalalithaa presented Rs 25000 and Rs 50000 (to those who have completed diploma or degree) and four gram gold coins each to seven girls as part of providing marriage assistance.

She also presented cash prizes of Rs 14.20 lakh to 78 students who performed well in the Class Ten and Twelve board examinations, it said.

PTI