Tamil Nadu Budget 2025-26 Highlights: 2,000-Acre Global City To Rs 2,500 Cr Education Loans Announced

Tamil Nadu's Finance Minister, Thangam Thennarasu, unveiled the state's budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 in the legislative assembly. This budget, being the fifth under the current DMK governance since its 2021 victory, holds particular importance as the state gears up for next year's elections. Amidst tensions with the central government and debates around the three-language policy and delimitation, this budget presentation was keenly watched.

One of the key announcements was the allocation of ₹3,500 crore towards the Kalaignar Kanavu Illam housing scheme. This initiative aims to provide affordable housing to low-income families by constructing one lakh new homes across Tamil Nadu, honoring the legacy of former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi.

Push for Tamil Language and Infrastructure Development

The budget also emphasized promoting Tamil language and literature. Thennarasu announced plans to translate 500 selected Tamil books into various languages through the State Textbook Corporation. Additionally, book fairs are set to be organized in major cities both within and outside India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Thiruvananthapuram, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. A World Tamil Olympiad is slated to be held annually, and a language museum, 'Agaram', will be established in Madurai, further showcasing the state's dedication to its linguistic heritage.

A significant infrastructure project highlighted in the budget is the development of a global city sprawled over 2,000 acres near Chennai. This city will feature educational institutions, private enterprises, housing facilities, wide roads, and recreational spaces, aiming to create a holistic living and working environment.

Education and Worker Welfare Initiatives

Thennarasu announced the expansion of the Chief Minister's Breakfast Scheme to include government-aided schools in urban areas, with ₹600 crore allocated to benefit 3 lakh students. This move is aimed at ensuring that more children start their day with a nutritious meal.

In support of gig workers, the government plans to launch a program offering ₹20,000 to individuals for the purchase of e-scooters, facilitating their work. Furthermore, the government has set up a gig workers welfare board to oversee this initiative.

Cultural and Archaeological Focus

The budget also placed an emphasis on cultural preservation and archaeological endeavors. Tamil Nadu is set to conduct excavations at eight sites within the state, alongside ventures in Palur (Odisha), Venki (Andhra Pradesh), and Maski (Karnataka). These efforts aim to unearth and preserve the rich historical heritage of the region.

In a move to safeguard temple properties, the Tamil Nadu government has successfully reclaimed vast expanses of land and buildings valued at approximately ₹7,185 crore. Additionally, restoration efforts for 84 temple tanks have been completed at a cost of ₹72 crore, with ₹125 crore allocated for further renovation and conservation works in ancient temples.

Transport and Education Investments

The budget has made substantial allocations for the transport sector, totaling ₹12,964 crore. This includes funds for bus travel schemes, student fare subsidies, and diesel subsidies. Plans are underway to extend the Chennai Metro Rail network and explore the feasibility of implementing a Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) and a Semi High-Speed Railway Network to enhance connectivity across major cities.

In the realm of education, a special scheme has been introduced to support Tamil Nadu's candidates in the Union Civil Services Examinations. Selected students will receive financial assistance during their preparation, with a total fund allocation of ₹10 crore. Additionally, a substantial ₹2,500 crore has been dedicated to education loans, benefitting one lakh students.

Women's Welfare and New Infrastructure Projects

Addressing women's welfare, Thennarasu highlighted various schemes, including free bus travel, with a dedicated fund of ₹3,600 crore for the Magalir Vidiyal Payanam scheme. Other initiatives include the Magalir Urimai Thogai and Pudhumai Penn schemes, alongside a significant ₹37,000 crore allocation for loans to self-help groups.

The announcement of a new airport in Rameswaram aims to boost tourism and improve connectivity to South Tamil Nadu, contributing to the economic upliftment of the region. Land acquisition for the expansion of several major airports, including Chennai and Coimbatore, has been completed, marking a significant investment in the state's infrastructure.