Tamil Nadu Noon-Meal Workers Protest for Pension Hike and Employment Benefits

On January 20, 2026, over 2,000 nutrition and noon-meal scheme workers across Tamil Nadu staged protests demanding the implementation of long-pending promises from the DMK government, including increased pensions (ranging from ₹6,750 to ₹9,000), time-scale pay, gratuity benefits, promotions, and improved working conditions. The protests, involving sit-ins and road blockades in multiple districts, led to the arrest of hundreds of demonstrators, who were later released. Workers emphasized unfilled vacancies and delays in fulfilling election manifesto commitments.