“Mahalir Vidiyal Payanam” bus service extended to hills areas in Salem Dt.

In a bid to empower and provide access the women of Yercaud and Karumandurai hill areas in Salem district, the “ Mahalir Vidiyal Payanam” bus service was inaugurated on March 14, 2024. 
Salem North Constituency MLA Mr. R Rajendran led the ceremony, hoisting the flag at the Yercaud Bus 
Station. 
The event witnessed the presence of Dr. Alarmelmankai, Additional Collector (Development) of District Rural Development Agency. 
Addressing the gathering, Salem North Assembly member highlighted the commitment of the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu towards women's empowerment, emphasizing various schemes aimed at their advancement. 
Among these initiatives, the “ Mahalir Vidiyal Payanam” stands out, offering free travel for women in ordinary government city buses. 
Last month's budget by the Chief Minister revealed plans to extend the Mahalir Vidyal Payanam service to hilly areas, including Yercaud. 
Accordingly, the Salem Division of the Tamil Nadu Government Transport Corporation launched the program in Yercaud, benefiting women and higher education students from approximately 65 villages in the region. 
At Attur the Revenue Divisional Officer, Piryadharshini initiated the Women's Dawn Travel Project for the Karumanturai hills, encompassing around 98 villages. 
The ceremony saw the participation of key officials including Tamil Nadu Government Transport Corporation Salem Zone General Manager Mr. Gopalakrishnan, Deputy Managers Mr. Sivalingam and Mr. Mani, alongside representatives of local bodies.