Govt order released on June 23, 2026, clears the way for the Maternal Uncle Gold Ring Scheme, a pre‑poll promise of the ruling Tamil Nadu Vellalar Kamaraj (TVK) party. The order stipulates that every newborn born in a government‑run hospital between Vijay’s birthday, June 22, and the launch date will qualify for a one‑gram gold ring.
The scheme, procured by the state at a cost of ₹1.28 lakh rings, assigns each piece a unique serial number and tamper‑proof packaging. Distribution will take place at the time of discharge from the hospital, ensuring the ring accompanies the baby from the moment it leaves the neonatal unit.
Eligibility hinges on three criteria: the mother must be a permanent resident of Tamil Nadu, registered under the PICME (Pregnancy and Infant Cohort Monitoring and Evaluation) scheme, and possess an RCH (Reproductive and Child Health) ID card. With 7.80 lakh births annually and 99.9 percent occurring in hospitals, the scheme targets the 4.20 lakh deliveries in government facilities, 90 percent of which happen in CEmONC Centres.
Health Minister KG Arunraj noted in a meeting at the Secretariat that the rings aim to boost public trust in healthcare services and encourage safe delivery practices. "By offering a tangible token of care, we strengthen maternal and child health protection," he said.
A mother from Chennai, who gave birth in a state hospital on July 12, said she was grateful to receive the ring upon discharge. "It feels like a blessing and a reminder that the government cares for us," she added.
The government will begin handing out the rings on September 28, with the first distribution scheduled for the morning shift at the Tiruvallur district hospital. Officials expect the initiative to set a precedent for similar welfare schemes nationwide.