Wed Jul 16 14:42:49 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Differently abled individuals in Madurai, represented by TARATDAC, have appealed to MP Su. Venkatesan to advocate for increased welfare support during the upcoming parliamentary session. They are requesting a significant increase in the Union government’s monthly assistance, arguing that the current ₹300 is insufficient. They also advocate for the removal of the age restriction on receiving assistance and an increase in the rice ration provided to holders of Antyodaya Anna Yojana cards. MP Venkatesan has assured them that he will raise these issues in Parliament.

**News Article:**

**Madurai: Differently Abled Advocate for Increased Welfare in Upcoming Parliament Session**

**MADURAI, July 16, 2025** – Members of the Tamil Nadu Association for the Rights of All Types of Differently Abled and Caregivers (TARATDAC) in Madurai have petitioned Member of Parliament Su. Venkatesan to champion their cause for enhanced welfare benefits during the upcoming parliamentary session.

The primary concern raised is the inadequacy of the Union government’s contribution to the monthly assistance provided to differently abled individuals. Currently, the Union government provides only ₹300, which, when combined with the State government’s contribution, amounts to ₹1,500 per month (₹2,000 for specific disabilities).

“The Union government needs to understand the escalating medical expenses and other essential needs of differently abled people,” stated A. Balamurugan, district secretary of TARATDAC. “We urge them to increase the monthly assistance to ₹5,000. This would also encourage the State government to further augment their contributions.”

Furthermore, TARATDAC is advocating for the removal of the existing age restriction (18 years) for eligibility to receive monetary assistance. They propose that any individual holding a disability certificate should be entitled to receive the benefit.

The organization also requested an increase in the rice ration provided to Antyodaya Anna Yojana cardholders through the Public Distribution System (PDS). They suggested that the Union government’s contribution could facilitate an increase from the current 20 kg to 35 kg of rice per month.

“An increase to 35 kg would significantly aid those who rely solely on PDS shops for their monthly food supplies,” Mr. Balamurugan explained.

MP Venkatesan has reportedly assured the representatives of TARATDAC that he will raise these critical issues during the upcoming parliamentary session. The outcome of these discussions remains to be seen.

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