Tamil Nadu’s gold ring scheme will not be launched on its scheduled September 15 date in Usilampatti, Madurai, as the proposed inauguration has been delayed because of Chief Minister Vijay’s foreign trip, Health Minister Arun Raj said on September 9. The government is expected to issue an official announcement on the revised schedule soon.
The minister said the launch planned for Usilampatti would be postponed, but did not provide a new date. The scheme’s inauguration was to take place in the Madurai district town, although further details about its implementation and beneficiaries were not included in the report.
Arun Raj also said that the gold rings to be distributed under the scheme would meet quality standards. According to his statement, every ring would carry a 916 hallmark, and there would be no compromise on the quality of the gold.
The minister’s remarks also covered preparations for the expected monsoon and the dengue season. He said the number of patients was gradually increasing as the season approached and that mosquito-control work was continuing. Field workers had been instructed to visit every house and prevent rainwater from stagnating, he said.
Mosquito-control teams were also carrying out spraying operations in homes and other locations, according to the minister. The comments come as local authorities prepare for the public-health risks associated with standing water and increased mosquito breeding during the rainy period.
Arun Raj further said that visitor restrictions at government hospitals would be enforced. Visitors would be allowed during two designated periods: from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The minister also said that bringing food in plastic bags into government hospitals would be prohibited.
He said the Health Department’s first priority was improving public health, followed by treating illnesses. He also called for health-related information to reach people without discrimination based on income and urged residents to reduce their salt intake.
The revised date for the Tamil Nadu gold ring scheme inauguration and the formal details of the delay are expected to be communicated through an official announcement.
