SHG Identity Cards in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu has become the first state in India to issue official SHG Identity Cards to Women Self-Help Group (SHG) members, marking a significant milestone in the empowerment of women at the grassroots level. This initiative, launched on September 16, 2025, by Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin at Karuppur in Salem district, also included the distribution of ₹3,500 crore in loans to SHGs.

The move aims to strengthen the institutional support for over five lakh SHGs operating across the state, enhancing their access to both financial and social benefits.

Origin and Background of SHG Identity Cards

The idea for SHG Identity Cards emerged during a government function in Tiruvarur, where SHG members requested ID cards to facilitate easier access to government schemes. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced the rollout of the ID cards on March 8, 2025, coinciding with International Women’s Day.

Tamil Nadu, which pioneered the SHG movement in India in 1989, has once again set a precedent by issuing SHG Identity Cards, legitimizing the role of SHGs in local development and women-led economic activities.

Launch and Key Facts

The SHG Identity Cards were officially launched by Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin, and the initiative included the following:

• Distribution of ₹3,500 crore loans to SHG members

• Issuance of SHG membership ID cards to strengthen financial and social identity

• Integration with government schemes to ensure direct benefit transfer

Static Facts:

• Date of Launch: September 16, 2025

• Launched by: Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin

• Beneficiaries: Women Self-Help Group (SHG) members

• Loan Amount Distributed: ₹3,500 crore

Benefits of SHG Identity Cards

The SHG Identity Cards are designed to empower women economically and socially by connecting them with broader state welfare initiatives.

Key benefits include:

1. Free Travel: SHG members transporting goods can travel up to 100 km on government buses.

2. Special Discounts: Members receive discounts at Aavin, Co-optex, and Mudhalvar Marunthagam (Chief Minister’s Medical Stores).

3. Easy Access to Welfare Schemes: SHG ID cards streamline access to state-supported marketplaces and government schemes.

4. Financial Empowerment: The SHG loan ID card facilitates loans and credit for women entrepreneurs.

5. Recognition: The government ID for SHG members strengthens social legitimacy and inclusion in official programs.

These measures reduce costs for women entrepreneurs, promote financial independence, and foster inclusive growth in rural and semi-urban areas.

Alignment with Existing Women-Centric Schemes

The SHG Identity Cards complement other major welfare initiatives by the Tamil Nadu government, such as

• Magalir Vidiyal Payanam: Over 770 crore free bus rides taken by women in the last 4.5 years.

• Magalir Urimai Thogai Scheme: Benefitting 1.15 crore women with ₹1,000 monthly assistance, with eligibility now extended to more beneficiaries.

• Enhanced sports, education, and health schemes for women and girls.

By linking these programs with a unified SHG Identity Card system, the government ensures transparent and direct delivery of benefits to women across the state.

How to Apply for SHG Identity Cards in Tamil Nadu

Women SHG members can obtain their SHG membership ID card by following a simple procedure:

1. Eligibility: Must be a registered Tamil Nadu women SHG member.

2. Application: Submit basic personal and SHG details to the local SHG office.

3. Verification: Officials will verify membership and provide the SHG ID card.

4. Benefits Activation: Once issued, the SHG card benefits, such as discounts, free travel, and welfare access, can be availed immediately.

Long-tail benefits include free bus travel and discounts with the SHG card, access to financial schemes, and social recognition for women entrepreneurs.

Final Thoughts

Tamil Nadu has become the first state in India to issue SHG Identity Cards to Women Self-Help Group members, marking a major step toward women’s empowerment. Launched on September 16, 2025, by Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, the initiative also included the distribution of ₹3,500 crore in loans to SHGs. These SHG ID cards aim to provide easier access to government schemes, social recognition, and financial benefits for over five lakh SHG members across the state.

With the cards, women can avail free bus travel up to 100 km, enjoy special discounts at Aavin, Co-optex, and Mudhalvar Marunthagam, and access state-supported marketplaces. The initiative complements programs like Magalir Vidiyal Payanam and Magalir Urimai Thogai Scheme, ensuring transparent and direct delivery of welfare benefits.

By linking financial, social, and institutional support, SHG Identity Cards not only strengthen women’s economic independence but also encourage entrepreneurship and local development.