Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Wednesday launched a sharp critique against the central government, accusing it of failing to provide adequate financial support to the state's efforts in combating climate change. While detailing the state's proactive measures, Stalin highlighted a significant funding gap from the Union government.
A Massive Funding Shortfall for Disaster Relief
Addressing the third meeting of the Tamil Nadu Governing Council on Climate Change in Chennai, Stalin revealed stark figures. The state government had demanded Rs 24,679 crore for disaster relief, but the Union government sanctioned a mere Rs 4,136 crore. This amount constitutes only 17% of the requested funds, leaving an 83% deficit that the state must manage on its own.
Despite this financial constraint, Stalin asserted that the Tamil Nadu government is not slowing down. He emphasized that the state is aggressively moving forward with its climate action agenda by mobilizing its own resources. The DMK government has allocated close to Rs 500 crore specifically for climate mitigation and adaptation initiatives, demonstrating its commitment to the cause.
Key Initiatives Driving Tamil Nadu's Climate Agenda
The Chief Minister outlined several flagship programs currently being implemented. A major focus has been placed on climate education and heat mitigation. A Rs 24 crore climate literacy program has been launched, under which 4,000 school teachers have been identified for specialized training. Furthermore, environmental awareness camps for students, previously an annual event, will now be conducted twice a year.
To directly address rising urban heat, the government has rolled out a innovative cool roofing project. A pilot was conducted at the Perunthalaivar Kamarajar Government Girls Higher Secondary School in Ambattur, where high-reflectivity white coatings were applied to classroom rooftops. Temperature sensors recorded a significant reduction of 1.5 to 3 degrees Celsius in those classrooms. Encouraged by the results, the project is slated for expansion to 297 more schools.
Green Mobility and Environmental Gains
In the transport sector, steps are being taken to reduce pollution and promote green mobility. The state metropolitan transport corporation has already introduced 120 electric buses in Chennai, with plans to add another 600 e-buses soon. These measures are part of a broader push towards sustainable public transport.
Stalin also highlighted significant environmental restoration achievements. Through concerted government efforts, the mangrove cover in the state has doubled from 4,500 hectares to 9,000 hectares. The state is also promoting climate-resilient villages, carbon-neutral pathways, and widespread solar installations.
The Chief Minister concluded by stating that these comprehensive initiatives have positioned Tamil Nadu at the forefront of national climate action. The state now tops the Niti Aayog rankings in both climate action and clean energy, a testament to its determined efforts despite the claimed lack of financial partnership from the Centre.
