The Tamil Nadu Adi Dravidar Housing Development Corporation Limited (TAHDCO) is poised to revolutionise the benefits distribution system for temporary cleanliness workers across the state. The corporation is finalising an extensive database to ensure that both Union and State government schemes effectively reach eligible beneficiaries.
TAHDCO, the primary agency tasked with this endeavour, has been collaborating closely with various local bodies including the Greater Chennai Corporation and the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board. Over the past few months, the agency has conducted a comprehensive survey to register temporary cleanliness workers such as sanitary workers, rag pickers, crematorium staff, sweepers, and hospital housekeeping personnel. As of now, more than 250,000 workers have been successfully registered. The initiative is ongoing, with an additional 100,000 workers expected to be included in the database. The next significant step involves issuing smart cards to the registered individuals. These smart cards will replace the older physical booklets and feature integrated personal data along with details of the various schemes to which the workers are entitled.
These smart cards are designed to streamline access to benefits and improve communication between workers and the administering bodies. Beneficiaries will receive updates about their entitlements directly on their registered mobile numbers. This digitised system will facilitate targeted assistance, including housing support, maternity benefits, educational scholarships, marriage benefits, and pensions for the elderly. The initial phase of issuing these smart cards is expected to commence within a month. This initiative aims to enhance efficiency and ensure that the benefits reach those who need them most without delay.
