Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay unveiled the ‘Annapoorani Super Six’ scheme, granting three free LPG cylinders annually to families earning below ₹2.5 lakh and offering free bus rides to women and transgender commuters across all bus categories.

  • From Pongal 2027, 1.30 crore low‑income families will receive three free LPG cylinders each year.
  • Women and transgender passengers will enjoy free travel on ordinary, express, LSS and deluxe buses.
  • The government rejected the proposed Parandur airport, siding with local opposition.

Chief Minister Vijay addressed the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly with a series of welfare announcements. The flagship ‘Annapoorani Super Six’ programme will commence at Pongal 2027, providing three free LPG cylinders annually to households earning less than ₹2.5 lakh per year. State estimates project that roughly 1.30 crore families will benefit, with an annual outlay of about ₹4,000 crore.

Under the scheme, the cost of each cylinder will be credited directly to the beneficiary’s bank account after purchase, ensuring transparency and immediate financial relief. This move aims to strengthen energy security for the poorest while reducing their household expenditure.

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In parallel, Vijay announced a groundbreaking free‑bus initiative for women and transgender commuters. The policy covers all categories—ordinary, express, LSS and deluxe—and extends to inter‑district services under the ‘Vetri Payana Thittam’ banner, effective from 2 October. By removing fare barriers, the government seeks to promote gender‑inclusive mobility and enhance safety for vulnerable travelers.

Transgender passengers, often marginalized in public transport, will now enjoy the same fare‑free privileges, reflecting the administration’s commitment to equality. “We are dedicated to providing equal facilities to every citizen, irrespective of gender identity,” Vijay affirmed.

The controversial Parandur airport proposal also featured in Vijay’s speech. Citing strong local opposition, the state will not proceed with construction at Parandur and is scouting alternative sites. Instead, a new Terminal‑5 at Chennai’s existing Meenambakkam airport will be fast‑tracked, aligning infrastructure growth with community concerns.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that these welfare measures could set a benchmark for other Indian states, balancing fiscal responsibility with social equity. By targeting both energy poverty and transport accessibility, Tamil Nadu aims to boost household savings while promoting gender‑inclusive mobility.

“Free LPG and free bus travel for marginalized groups can significantly improve living standards and empower vulnerable communities,” says Dr. Ananya Rao, social policy expert.
Did You Know?: Tamil Nadu pioneered the national LPG subsidy expansion in 2017, benefitting millions of households across India.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Which families are eligible for the free LPG cylinders?
A: All households with an annual income below ₹2.5 lakh that are listed in the state’s beneficiary database will receive the cylinders.

Q2: How will commuters access the free bus travel?
A: Eligible passengers will be issued a special identification card, which they must present to bus conductors to claim the fare‑free ride.