![]() |
Tara Cherian, India's first woman Mayor of Madras.thehindu.com |
Tara Cherian, born in May 1913 in Madras (now Chennai, Tamil Nadu), hailed from a well-disciplined Christian family with roots in Kerala. Her father, the late Mr. D. I. Jesudasen, was Postmaster-General of Madras. After completing her education at Madras University, she dedicated herself to social service. She became actively involved in the Guild of Service, an organization committed to social welfare. Her leadership abilities were quickly recognized, and by the age of 35, she became the chairman of the Guild, a position where she made a significant impact through her passion and dedication.
![]() |
.Madras Mayor Mrs. Tara Cherian 1957 madrasmusings.com |
First Woman Mayor of Madras
Chennai (madras) Corporation building,en.wikipedia.org/ |
Focus on Slum Development
Being a woman of compassion, Tara Cherian's mayoral term was characterized by her concern for the rapid development of slums in Madras. With an influx of people from surrounding districts in search of job opportunities, the population went up, but many areas lacked basic amenities such as sanitation, potable water and electricity. She worked to raise awareness about the living conditions in these slums, famously stating, ''The slums are the black spots of Madras." Her focus on urban poor welfare set a precedent for future city planning and administration.
Introduction of the Midday Meals Scheme
One of Tara Cherian’s most notable contribution was the introduction of the Midday Meals Scheme under the auspices of the Guild of Service. This program aimed to provide free lunches to needy students, benefiting around 25,000 children. Launched in 1958 with the support of T.T. Krishnamachari, a Union Minister, the scheme significantly improved nutrition and educational outcomes for many poor children in Madras. The program was later introduced in Maharashtra when her husband served as Governor of the state. This mid-day meals scheme was followed and further popularized by Chief Minister and former popular movie idol of Tamil Nadu Late M.G. Ramachandran in the 1970s
Leadership in Public Service
Tara Cherian’s contributions extended beyond her role as Mayor. She held leadership positions in various public sector organizations, including Indian Airlines and Life Insurance Corporation. She also served as the chairperson of the Tamil Nadu Government Welfare Board during the 1970s. Her commitment to social welfare, particularly for children and physically challenged individuals, remained central to her life's work.
Personal Life and Legacy
Based on --
https://www.navrangindia.in/2015/08/mrstara-cherian-independentt-indias.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tara_Cherian
http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/2000/11/15/stories/13150461.htm
https://www.madrasmusings.com/vol-31-no-24/when-chennai-got-its-first-woman-mayor