Jewellery major Joyalukkas has emerged as the lowest (L1) bidder for the TVK government’s ₹755.83-crore ‘Thaaimaaman Thanga Mothira Thittam’, quoting just one paisa towards making charges and other additional costs, excluding the cost of gold, according to a Thanthi TV report.
The development has drawn attention to the family and personal links between the jewellery group and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay. John Alukkas, Managing Director and CEO of Jos Alukkas and son of its founder Jos Alukka, is the biological nephew of Joy Alukkas, founder of Joyalukkas and a close friend of Vijay.
The timing has also attracted scrutiny as John Alukkas had met Vijay shortly before the scheme was announced. John Alukkas, who had earlier been associated with Vijay through Jos Alukkas’ brand ambassador relationship with the actor, described Vijay as “an old friend, now Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay” after their recent meeting.
One-Paisa Quote For Additional Charges
The tender was floated for the procurement and supply of one-gram gold rings under the scheme, which is scheduled to be launched on 15 September 2026.
Joyalukkas reportedly quoted one paisa towards making charges and other additional costs for each ring. The amount covers making charges, hallmarking, packing, insurance and transportation, while the actual cost of the gold is excluded.
The government is expected to finalise the tender process before the proposed launch.
Under the scheme, children born in Tamil Nadu government hospitals and Primary Health Centres from 22 June 2026 onwards to families holding permanent residence in the state will be eligible to receive a one-gram gold ring along with essential baby-care items.
The government had allocated ₹755.83 crore for the scheme, which it says is intended to encourage institutional deliveries and provide support to mothers delivering at government healthcare facilities.
Subscribe to our channels on WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram and YouTube to get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
