♦ Tamil Nadu became the first state in India to issue identity cards to Women Self-Help Group (SHG) members, marking a significant milestone in the empowerment of women at the grassroots level.

♦ The initiative was officially launched by Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin at Karuppur in Salem district, along with the distribution of Rs.3,500 crore in loans to SHGs.

♦ This move strengthens the institutional support for over five lakh SHGs operating in the state and enhances their access to both financial and social benefits.