Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu unveiled the highly anticipated budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 in the state’s legislative assembly on March 14. Amid a charged political environment and ahead of the upcoming elections, this budget marks the fifth fiscal plan under the current DMK government led by Chief Minister MK Stalin.
The unveiling of the budget was not without controversy, as the state government replaced the Devanagari rupee symbol ‘₹’ with a Tamil letter in its logo. This move ignited a fiery exchange of words between the ruling DMK and the BJP-led central government. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman questioned the DMK’s sudden shift, pointing out the party’s silence when the Congress adopted the symbol back in 2010.
Key Highlights from the Tamil Nadu Budget 2025-26
Empowering Underprivileged Citizens
The budget has earmarked a substantial ₹3,500 crore for the Kalaignar Kanavu Illam housing scheme, named after former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi. This initiative aims to provide one lakh new homes to disadvantaged individuals across the state, ensuring access to affordable housing for low-income families.
Celebrating Tamil Culture
In a bid to promote Tamil language and literature, the Finance Minister announced the translation of 500 Tamil books into various languages through the State Textbook Corporation. Additionally, book fairs will be organized in prominent cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, along with the establishment of a World Tamil Olympiad and a language museum called ‘Agaram’ in Madurai.
Infrastructure Development for Tomorrow
One of the most ambitious announcements in the budget was the proposal to develop a sprawling 2,000-acre global city near Chennai. This futuristic city will house educational institutions, private enterprises, and modern infrastructure, along with residential complexes, expansive roads, and recreational spaces. The vision is to create a cutting-edge urban hub that caters to diverse needs and fosters holistic growth.
Mobilizing Resources for Progress
To enhance the state’s education sector, the government has allocated a substantial ₹2,500 crore for education loans benefiting a significant number of students. Additionally, an innovative initiative to provide gig workers with financial support to acquire e-scooters for their livelihood was introduced, further augmenting opportunities for sustainable income generation.
The budget also reaffirms the state’s commitment to the two-language policy, despite facing challenges from the central government. By prioritizing student welfare and teacher benefits, Tamil Nadu stands firm in its stance, showcasing a resilient spirit in navigating through contentious educational policies.
Looking Ahead: Transformational Projects and Inclusive Growth
In a bid to bolster transportation infrastructure, significant allocations have been made for the Chennai Metro Rail Extension, Rapid Transit System, and various transport subsidies. These initiatives aim to enhance connectivity, reduce travel time, and lay the groundwork for a more efficient and sustainable public transport network across the state.
Furthermore, the budget underscores the government’s dedication to women’s welfare schemes, with substantial funds allocated towards empowering women through various initiatives like free bus travel, skill development programs, and financial support for self-help groups. These schemes are designed to uplift and empower women, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
Infrastructure Expansion and Economic Development
The announcement of a new airport in Rameswaram marks a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity, boosting tourism, and catalyzing economic growth in the region. With land acquisition completed for multiple airports across the state, Tamil Nadu is poised to witness a transformative shift in its aviation infrastructure, opening up new avenues for development and progress.
As the state charts its course towards a brighter future, the Tamil Nadu Budget 2025-26 sets the stage for inclusive growth, sustainable development, and transformative initiatives that aim to uplift communities, empower individuals, and propel the state towards prosperity and progress.
