Ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, state Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu on Saturday presented the interim budget for the financial year 2026-27 in the state Assembly.
During his speech, Thennarasu emphasized on the economic progress of the state, saying that Tamil Nadu has successfully promoted the development of micro, small and medium enterprises along with attracting foreign investment.
He attributed this progress of the state to “Kalaignar” M. Karunanidhi and C.N. Annadurai and said that several development schemes implemented in the last five years have contributed to significant growth in various sectors.
Thennarasu also highlighted the government’s commitment to preserving the Tamil language and its rich cultural heritage, reflecting a mix of economic and cultural priorities.
Tamil Nadu Finance Minister said, “We have not only attracted foreign investment but also strengthened the development of micro, small and medium enterprises. In the last five years, we have implemented several development schemes. It is because of the visionary leadership of Kalaignar and Anna that Tamil Nadu has been able to achieve significant development in many sectors today. The DMK government is committed to protecting the diverse and multifaceted richness of the Tamil language.”
He Dr. B.R. Translation of 27 books of Ambedkar into simple Tamil, declaration of Tamil song ‘Thai Vazhathu’ as the state song and publication of Thanthai Periyar’s works in 21 languages were mentioned. Additionally, efforts are also underway to translate Thirukkural into the official languages of the United Nations.
He said the government has set up several museums to celebrate Tamil heritage and plans to set up new museums at a cost of Rs 285 crore, underscoring the state’s focus on economic development as well as cultural pride.
Tamil Nadu Finance Minister said, “Funds are being increased for women self-help groups. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s works have been translated into simple Tamil and 27 books have been published so far. Tamil Nadu government has declared ‘Tamil Thai Vazhathu’ as the state song. Thanthai Periyar’s works have been published in 21 languages. Many museums have been set up to showcase Tamil pride. Thirukkural “Efforts are underway to translate it into the official languages of the United Nations.”
Thennarasu announced an increase in funds for women self-help groups and highlighted the Kalaignar Women Eligibility Scheme, which has benefited 1.31 crore women by providing Rs 5,000 per beneficiary. Other initiatives like Vidiyal Yatra Yojana and Pudhumai Pen Yojana are aimed at promoting social and economic development of women.
The Minister also mentioned that relief material worth Rs 197 crore has been provided to Sri Lanka to help it deal with its current economic crisis, underscoring Tamil Nadu’s commitment to regional solidarity and humanitarian assistance.
Thennarasu said, “The Women’s Empowerment Scheme is a pioneering initiative in India. A total of Rs 6,500 crore was distributed in Tamil Nadu in a single day, with Rs 5,000 given to each female beneficiary. Schemes like Vidiyal Yatra Scheme and Pudhumai Pen Scheme are being implemented to promote the progress of women. Relief material worth Rs 197 crore has been provided to Sri Lanka to help it overcome its economic crisis. Kalaignar Women 1.31 crore women are getting benefits from the Adhikar scheme.”
Thennarasu announced that 3,632 persons with disabilities have been appointed in local bodies, including 4 percent reservation in government employment and promotions. He further said that Rs 5,463 crore has been allocated for all social security schemes and Rs 48,534 crore for the School Education Department in the interim budget, underscoring the commitment towards inclusive growth and education.
He said, “3,632 persons with disabilities have been appointed in local bodies. Provision has been made for reservation for persons with disabilities in promotions. 4 percent reservation has been given to persons with disabilities in government employment. Rs 54.63 crore has been allocated for all social security schemes in the interim budget. Rs 48,534 crore has been allocated for the school education department in the interim budget.”
