Mon Jul 28 18:32:10 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text, along with a brief overview of The Hindu’s digital offerings:
**Summary of the text:**
The provided text is a news article from The Hindu, dated July 29, 2025, reporting on a housing initiative in Puducherry. Chief Minister N. Rangasamy announced his government’s goal to eliminate slums in the union territory and highlighted the distribution of free land title deeds to landless beneficiaries by the Adi Dravidar Welfare and Scheduled Tribes Welfare Department. The initiative marks an upgrade, providing 800 square feet units compared to the previous 400 square feet. The government is also focusing on education, exemplified by a 10% reservation in medical education for NEET-qualifying students from government schools, and has increased funding for Scheduled Caste welfare programs.
**News Article:**
**Puducherry Aims for Slum-Free Status with New Housing Initiative**
**Puducherry, India – July 29, 2025** – Chief Minister N. Rangasamy announced ambitious plans to eradicate slums in Puducherry, unveiling the first phase of a program to distribute free land title deeds to landless beneficiaries. Speaking at an event in Manavely and Manapet, the Chief Minister stated that the administration is close to achieving its goal, with 90% of slums already cleared and residents resettled in improved housing.
The initiative, managed by the Adi Dravidar Welfare and Scheduled Tribes Welfare Department, marks a significant upgrade in housing provision, offering 800 square feet units compared to the previous 400 square feet. “This is the first time we are providing free land titles for units of this size,” Rangasamy stated.
Beyond housing, the government is prioritizing education, introducing a 10% reservation in medical education for NEET-qualifying students from government schools. This policy may be expanded across other higher education avenues. Furthermore, the budget allocation for Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare programs has been increased by ₹150 crore, including ₹65 crore specifically for the education of children from the SC community. The government also plans to construct tenements in rural areas following a survey conducted by a newly formed committee.
**Overview of The Hindu’s Digital Offerings (based on the provided text):**
The Hindu publishes a range of digital newsletters and features, including:
* **”The View From India”:** An analysis of world affairs from an Indian perspective.
* **”First Day First Show”:** News and reviews from the world of cinema and streaming.
* **”Today’s Cache”:** A daily download of the top 5 technology stories.
* **”Science For All”:** A weekly newsletter that makes science accessible.
* **”Data Point”:** Analysis of news headlines with data and figures.
* **”Health Matters”:** Advice and insights on health and wellness.
* **”The Hindu On Books”:** Reviews, excerpts, and features on new books.
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