business ๐ถ Gold rings vs. rights in Tamil Nadu's new scheme
The Tamil Nadu government launched the Thaimaman Thanga Mothiram (TTM) scheme, giving a one-gram gold ring to babies born in government hospitals. This initiative, implemented in Tamil Nadu, is being scrutinized for reinforcing patriarchal norms rather than upholding constitutional rights. While the state has progressive welfare programs, the TTM frames benefits as a 'gift' instead of an entitlement. Each ring costs the state around Rs 17,000, which could bolster wage-linked maternity benefits. This comes as southern states address declining fertility rates with pro-natalist policies. ๐ถ