Vijay's Annan Seer scheme gets rollout nod, Rs 812 crore cleared as first instalment

Tamil Nadu has approved the Annan Seer scheme, offering eligible brides an eight-gram gold coin and a silk saree for marriages from the government order date.

In Short

• Scheme draws from Tamil custom of brothers offering wedding gifts
• Families earning up to Rs 2.5 lakh annually can claim support
• Eligible brides will receive a 22-carat gold coin and silk saree

The Tamil Nadu government has ordered the rollout of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay’s “Annan Seer” scheme, sanctioning Rs 812 crore as the first instalment to give eligible brides an eight-gram gold coin and a silk saree.

Announced in the revised Budget for 2026–27, the scheme draws on the Tamil tradition of an elder brother giving “seer”, or customary wedding gifts, as a gesture of affection and support.

The government says it aims to support brides in the role of an elder brother. According to the order, approximately five lakh marriages take place in Tamil Nadu each year.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

Women from Tamil Nadu families with an annual income of up to Rs 2.5 lakh are eligible. The marriage must take place in the state.

WHAT WILL BRIDES RECEIVE?

Each eligible bride will receive an eight-gram, 22-carat gold coin and a silk saree.

HOW MUCH HAS BEEN ALLOCATED?

The government has sanctioned Rs 812 crore as the first instalment from the current financial year’s Budget.

WHEN DOES IT TAKE EFFECT?

The scheme covers marriages taking place from the date the government order is issued.

HOW CAN WOMEN APPLY?

Applications will be accepted online. The order does not specify the portal, required documents or application deadline.

HOW WILL THE GOLD AND SAREES BE PROCURED?

Both will be purchased through tenders under the Tamil Nadu Transparency in Tenders Act, 1998, and its rules.

The gold price will be based on the India Bullion and Jewellers Association’s rate at 9 am on the day before the purchase order is issued.

- Ends