Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], September 30 (ANI): The newly-elected Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Udhayanidhi Stalin, on Monday participated in a women's empowerment program held on behalf of the Women's Development Corporation, Rural Development and Panchayats department.

Attending the event, Udhayanidhi Stalin presented state-level 'Mani Megalai' awards given to the best-performing self-help groups (SHGs) in rural and urban areas of Tamil Nadu.

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Udhaynidhi Stalin spoke about government efforts for women's welfare and criticised the opposition AIADMK.

"Rs 93 crore have been allotted and given for women welfare, we have given more funds than the last 10 years of AIADMK regime, we have given these funds in this 3 years of our regime. During the AIADMK regime, they stopped the Manimegala awards but now after the Dravidian Model government came to power, we have started it again and awards are being given for women's welfare," Udhaynidhi Stalin said.

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"More than other states in India, we are more forward in women's welfare and empowerment," Stalin added.

This is Udhayanidhi Stalin's first program after assuming the post of Deputy CM.

Stalin was appointed as the Deputy CM on September 28. The announcement came as part of a major cabinet reshuffle in the state government. The reshuffle also saw Senthil Balaji being re-inducted into the Tamil Nadu cabinet.

CM MK Stalin also recommended inducting V Senthil Balaji, Govi Chezhiaan, R Rajendran, and SM Nasar into the Council of Ministers.

"The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu has recommended to the Governor of Tamil Nadu to allot the portfolio of planning and development to Udhayanidhi Stalin, Minister for Youth Welfare and Sports Development, in addition to his existing portfolios and be designated as Deputy Chief Minister. Further, the Chief Minister has recommended to induct V.Senthilbalaji, Dr. Govi. Chezhiaan, R.Rajendran and S.M.Nasar in the Council of Ministers," the Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan release stated. (ANI)

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