Tamil Nadu Gives Gold Rings to Newborns

Tamil Nadu state in India has launched a scheme giving newborns born in public hospitals a free one gram gold ring.

The initiative, introduced by actor-turned-Chief Minister Vijay, aims to boost confidence in the public healthcare system and highlight maternal and newborn care.

At a government hospital in Madurai district, mothers received the rings and expressed gratitude, with one mother saying the gift would give her child something valuable for years ahead.

The scheme, called the Thaimaman programme, has drawn criticism from the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party, which argues that families need essential nutrition daily.

India’s public hospitals face staff shortages and long waiting times, prompting many to seek private care. Infant and maternal mortality rates remain a concern, with 24 infant deaths per 1,000 live births and 88 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births reported.