Mon May 05 17:54:51 UTC 2025: ## Tamil Nadu Announces Major Welfare Package for Traders
**Chennai, May 5, 2025** – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced a significant welfare package for traders in the state today, marking Traders’ Day. Key measures include a self-certification system for trade licenses for smaller businesses, a three-year extension of the 24/7 shop operating order, and an increase in the Family Benefit Fund.
The new self-certification process will streamline licensing for shops and commercial units under 500 sq. ft. that do not sell or serve food. Advisory committees, similar to those established in 2024 for larger municipalities, will be set up across the state to help resolve commercial disputes. A single-window portal will also be expanded to provide small traders easier access to 22 essential services, including licensing and registration.
The existing order permitting shops to operate around the clock will be extended for another three years, preventing its scheduled expiration on June 4th. Furthermore, nameboards under 9 sq. m. will be exempt from fees. The state government will issue an official order to formally recognize May 5th as Traders’ Day.
The Family Benefit Fund, provided by the Tamil Nadu Traders Welfare Board to families of deceased registered traders, will see a substantial increase from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh. The registration deadline for the Board will also be extended by six months. Finally, Chief Minister Stalin encouraged traders to adopt Tamil names for their businesses. The announcement was made at a meeting organized by the Tamil Nadu Vanigar Sangangalin Peramaippu.
First Piper 