Chennai: In a progressive step toward inclusive education, the Tamil Nadu Government has extended two of its flagship higher education support schemes—Pudhumai Penn and Tamil Pudhalvan—to members of the transgender community, including intersex persons.

The Pudhumai Penn Scheme, officially known as the Moovalur Ramamirtham Ammaiyar Higher Education Assurance Scheme, was launched on September 5, 2022. It provides a monthly financial assistance of ₹1,000 to girl students from government and government-aided schools (Classes 6 to 12) who pursue higher education.

Likewise, the Tamil Pudhalvan Scheme, launched on August 9, 2024, offers ₹1,000 per month to students studying in Tamil medium from government and government-aided schools once they enter higher education.

With the latest expansion, all transgender and intersex individuals are now eligible to receive financial aid under both schemes. In a notable relaxation of conditions, the requirement to have studied from Class 6 to 12 in Tamil medium has been waived for the transgender community.

Eligible beneficiaries can avail of the schemes by submitting a valid identity card issued by the Tamil Nadu Transgender Welfare Board as proof of identity.

The move underscores Tamil Nadu's ongoing efforts to improve higher education access and promote social equity for marginalized groups.