State - January 23, 2025

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin Visits Okkur Sri Lankan Tamil Rehabilitation Camp in Sivagangai District

January 23, 2025

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Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Mr. M.K. Stalin, visited the Sri Lankan Tamil Rehabilitation Camp at Okkur in Sivagangai District today (22.01.2025) to review the welfare measures being implemented for Sri Lankan Tamil refugees living in the camp. During his visit, the Chief Minister personally interacted with the residents to understand their needs and assess the progress of the initiatives undertaken for their benefit.

The Tamil Nadu government, under the leadership of the Chief Minister, has renamed refugee camps for Sri Lankan Tamils as “Sri Lankan Tamil Rehabilitation Camps” to emphasize their safety, dignity, and reintegration. Welfare measures for the residents have been enhanced, including increased monthly financial assistance, provision of clothing and utensils, educational aid, and livelihood support. Additionally, the government has introduced subsidies for LPG cylinders, modern cooking stoves, financial support for women’s self-help groups, and skill development training programs for youth to improve employment prospects.

In Okkur camp, 227 families currently reside. The first phase of housing construction saw 90 houses built and inaugurated on 17 September 2023. Each two-bedroom house costs ₹20 lakh, and individual houses are being constructed at ₹5.65 lakh each. The government has assured the construction of more houses for the remaining residents, and steps are being taken to expedite the process.

During the review, the Chief Minister also announced plans to build a community hall for the residents, addressing a long-pending request. His immediate approval for the project highlights his commitment to improving the quality of life for Sri Lankan Tamils in Tamil Nadu.

The inspection was attended by Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Cooperation, Mr. I. Periyasamy, Higher Education Minister, Dr. K. Ponmudi, and senior government officials.

Issued by:
Director, Department of Information and Public Relations, Chennai-9