TN to Set Up Muslim Women's College in Chennai and Cover Higher Education Fees

Minorities Welfare Minister A.M. Shah Jahan announced a series of major initiatives in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly on Thursday to boost education among Muslim women, including the establishment of a dedicated college for Muslim women in Chennai and government coverage of college fees.

Speaking during the discussion on the demand for grants for his ministry, the minister stated that the state government will pay the fees fixed by government, government-aided, and self-financing colleges for Muslim women pursuing higher education. The measure aims to support Muslim women in accessing and completing college degrees.

Minister Shah Jahan also announced expanded financial support for school students. He noted that educational assistance of Rs 1,000 was already being provided to Muslim girls studying in classes I to VIII. Starting this year, the government will provide educational assistance of Rs 2,000 per year to Muslim girl students studying in the ninth and tenth standards. A total of 41,384 girl students are expected to benefit from this expanded scheme.

Beyond education, the minister detailed livelihood and infrastructure measures for minority communities across Tamil Nadu. A total of 10,000 individuals from minority communities will receive self-employment training over the next four years. Under the plan, 2,500 people will be trained annually in sectors including information technology, automobile, apparel designing, beauty and wellness, embroidery, and agriculture.

The minister also announced that community centres will be constructed in five districts with significant minority populations: Cuddalore, Mayiladhuthurai, Tenkasi, Thoothukudi, and Krishnagiri. These community halls will be rented out at low rates to minority communities to host family and public functions.