Tamil Nadu CM Launches Affordable Pharmacy Chain to Boost Healthcare Access

Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin announced the launch of 'Mudalvar Marunthagam,' a pharmacy chain to provide affordable generic medicines. Set to open on Pongal 2025, the initiative promises 1,000 outlets in its first phase. Additionally, a loan scheme for retired armed forces personnel was unveiled.

On Thursday, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin revealed plans to inaugurate pharmacy outlets named 'Mudalvar Marunthagam' or Chief Minister's Pharmacy, to provide generic and other medicines at reduced prices.

During his Independence Day address, Stalin mentioned that over 75,000 job openings in the government sector will be filled by January 2026. The pharmacy scheme will commence from Pongal, the harvest festival celebrated on January 14, 2025, and will include 1,000 outlets in its initial phase.

The government will extend necessary credit facilities and a Rs 3 lakh subsidy to pharmacists and cooperative societies to ensure effective implementation. Moreover, Stalin introduced the 'Mudalvarin Kakkum Karangal' scheme to grant retired armed forces personnel loans of up to Rs 1 crore for their business ventures.

(With inputs from agencies.)