Tamil Nadu Renames CM Breakfast Scheme as Perunthalaivar Kamarajar Breakfast Scheme

Tamil Nadu renamed the Chief Minister’s Breakfast Scheme as the Perunthalaivar Kamarajar Breakfast Scheme on 22 July 2026. The scheme was first launched in September 2022 for students in Classes 1 to 5 in government primary schools.

Scheme Background

The Chief Minister’s Breakfast Scheme is a state welfare programme of Tamil Nadu. It provides breakfast to schoolchildren in government schools and was introduced by the DMK government in 2022.

Expansion to Higher Classes

The renamed scheme will extend coverage to students in Classes 6 to 8 in government and government-aided schools. The expansion is scheduled for 17 September 2026, which is the birth anniversary of social reformer Periyar E.V. Ramasamy.

Beneficiary Coverage and Budget

The expansion is expected to add 15 lakh students to the scheme. The total number of beneficiaries is projected to cross 34 lakh students across Tamil Nadu. The estimated annual expenditure for the expanded scheme is ₹343.55 crore. The state has sanctioned ₹217.63 crore for the financial year 2026-27.

Important Facts for Exams

• K. Kamaraj served as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and is also known as Perunthalaivar Kamarajar.
• Periyar E.V. Ramasamy was a social reformer associated with the Self-Respect Movement in Tamil Nadu.
• The Tamil Nadu government issued a government order for the renaming on 15 July 2026, which is K. Kamaraj’s birth anniversary.
• The scheme covers students in government primary schools and government-aided schools after expansion.

Political Context

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam identifies K. Kamaraj as one of its ideological leaders. The Congress, an ally of the TVK, welcomed the renaming decision.