The newlywed couples should consider welcoming one or two babies by 16:00, according to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin. Following Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu’s earlier appeal, Stalin encourages people to increase the population by having more children.
During a program organized by the Hindu Religious Board in Chennai, Stalin addressed the importance of population growth. He attended a media event where 31 couples got married simultaneously and advised the newlyweds that the time has come to prioritize having children over accumulating wealth.
Stalin noted, “In the past, elders blessed newly married couples with the desire to acquire 16 types of property. Now, it’s time to focus on giving birth to 16 children instead.” He explained that while elders used to emphasize 16 types of wealth, as described by writer Viswanathan, the contemporary blessing should focus on having sufficient children for a prosperous life.
He elaborated that the traditional blessings referred to various aspects of prosperity, including cattle, homes, education, and wealth. However, he remarked that nowadays, the emphasis should shift to raising children.
Before Stalin’s remarks, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu had also highlighted the need for population growth. He expressed concern about the increasing number of adults in the country, especially in South India, and called for a boost in the youth population. Naidu urged families to consider having larger families, suggesting that those with more children could even stand for election.