Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Showcases Government Achievements Ahead of Assembly Elections
In a strategic move ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu presented a comprehensive overview of the state government's social welfare and economic initiatives on Tuesday. Addressing the public, he emphasized how the DMK-led administration has garnered widespread support across all sections of society through targeted schemes and progressive policies.
Empowering Women Through Catalytic Initiatives
The minister highlighted the Vidiyal Payanam scheme as a pivotal program that allows women to travel free of cost on government buses in urban areas. Since its implementation, this initiative has facilitated an impressive 881 crore trips, resulting in an average monthly saving of ₹888 for each beneficiary. Thennarasu described it as a catalytic initiative that has significantly eased financial burdens for women.
Additionally, he detailed other women-centric schemes such as:
- Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam
- Pudhumai Penn Thittam
- Thozhi hostels
These programs have collectively improved the lives of women, protected their dignity, safeguarded their welfare, and empowered them to emerge as successful entrepreneurs.
Enhanced Social Sector Spending and Child Welfare
To further this empowerment, the government has increased spending on the social sector by more than ₹44,500 crore over the past four years, all while striving to sustain the state's robust economic growth. Thennarasu also spotlighted schemes for children, notably the Chief Minister's Breakfast Scheme, which benefits 19.34 lakh students. The government has allocated ₹1,284 crore to this initiative over the same period.
He explained, It not only ensured a nutritious breakfast for schoolgoing children, but also alleviated the hardship of underprivileged mothers. As a result, students' attendance increased and learning outcomes improved.
Inclusive Policies for All Sections of Society
The finance minister assured that no section of society has been left uncovered, with schemes specifically designed for transpersons, differently-abled individuals, and senior citizens. In the health sector, the government has made remarkable progress through initiatives like:
- Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam
- Innuyir Kappom – Nammai Kakkum 48
- Nalam Kaakkum Stalin schemes
A notable addition is a scheme to administer cervical cancer vaccines to girl students below 14 years of age in government and aided schools, underscoring the administration's commitment to preventive healthcare.
Driving Economic Growth and Industrial Expansion
Simultaneously, the government continues to focus on achieving its ambitious goal of a one-trillion-dollar economy by 2030. This is being pursued through proactive initiatives such as the Global Investors Meet (GIM) and TN-Rising, which have attracted large-scale industrial investments across various regions.
Since the DMK returned to power in 2021, the state has signed 1,179 Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) for a committed investment of ₹12.37 lakh crore, generating 36 lakh employment opportunities to date. The minister emphasized a balanced industrial growth strategy, with industrial parks established in 12 districts, in addition to the existing 24 Sipcot parks, bringing the total to 54 industrial parks.
Another significant initiative is the Tamil Nadu Semiconductor Mission 2030, aimed at creating high-revenue generation and high-paying jobs for the youth of the state. This forward-looking approach positions Tamil Nadu as a key player in the global semiconductor industry.
Conclusion: A Vision for the Future
Thangam Thennarasu's presentation effectively sets the stage for the DMK's campaign in the ensuing assembly election, showcasing a blend of social welfare and economic development. By highlighting achievements in women's empowerment, child welfare, inclusive policies, and industrial growth, the government aims to reinforce its commitment to a prosperous and equitable Tamil Nadu.
