Deputy speaker Pichandi distributes welfare kits to pregnant women

Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly Deputy Speaker K. Pichandi participated in a community baby shower ceremony organised by the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) under the Department of Social Welfare and Women’s Rights at the Kalaignar Centenary Multi-purpose Hall in Tiruvannamalai and distributed hygiene products and welfare items to expectant mothers.
Tiruvannamalai District Collector K. Tharpbagaraj presided over the event. Officials said the State government has been implementing several welfare schemes to ensure that pregnant women receive proper nutrition and healthcare during pregnancy.
As part of these initiatives, maintenance allowances, nutritional kits and medical guidance are being provided to ensure the birth of healthy children.
Community baby shower programmes are being organised across the district to create awareness among pregnant women about nutrition, healthcare and the importance of regular medical check-ups during pregnancy.
Officials said that 11,721 pregnant women are currently registered in 2,127 Anganwadi centres functioning across Tiruvannamalai district and are receiving the benefits of various government welfare schemes. At the event, a total of 410 pregnant women from Tiruvannamalai Urban, Tiruvannamalai Rural, Thurinjapuram and Kilpennathur unions took part in the ceremony and received refreshments and welfare items from the Deputy Speaker.
A special exhibition was also organised highlighting the importance of a balanced and nutritious diet for pregnant women. Various food items including grains, vegetables and greens were displayed to create awareness about healthy dietary practices.
Later, District Election Officer and Collector K. Tharpbagaraj inspected election preparedness at a polling station located at the Middle School in Thamarai Nagar under Tiruvannamalai Corporation in view of the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections. Officials and local body representatives attended the programme.