In Tamil Nadu, newborns in public hospitals are given gold rings — Dawn

Authorities in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu have launched a programme of free gold rings for children born in public medical facilities. The initiative was introduced on Monday by actor and the state’s chief minister, Vijay, Dawn reports.

All babies born in the state’s public healthcare facilities are eligible for a one-gram gold ring worth about $143. The programme was named Thaimaman, meaning “maternal uncle.”

Support for public healthcare

According to officials, the initiative is intended to draw attention to the health of mothers and newborns and strengthen trust in Tamil Nadu’s public healthcare system, where more than 72 million people live. At one public hospital in Madurai district, mothers with newborns lined up to receive the gift.

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The programme also draws on the cultural significance of gold in India, where it is widely used during weddings and religious ceremonies and is considered an asset for future generations. For many women, particularly in rural areas, gold jewellery can be a form of personal financial security.

Criticism of the initiative

Tamilisai Soundararajan, a representative of the Bharatiya Janata Party, which is in opposition in Tamil Nadu, said that gold rings could be a positive gesture, but that the more urgent need for families is the daily provision of necessary food.

India’s public hospitals often face staff shortages, long waiting times and uneven infrastructure, leading some patients to turn to more expensive private facilities. According to the latest official data, the country recorded 24 infant deaths per 1,000 live births and 88 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births.