TN CM Vijay makes strong pitch for funds and projects, backs cooperative federalism

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Thursday (June 11) signalled a constructive approach towards the Central government while placing several key demands before it, including the early release of pending funds and greater flexibility for the state in key sectors. His address at the 11th Governing Council meeting of NITI Aayog highlighted both collaboration and firm advocacy for Tamil Nadu’s interests.

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In his maiden address at the national forum, Vijay underscored the importance of cooperative federalism while outlining Tamil Nadu’s vision for growth. “Tamil Nadu wholeheartedly supports the nation’s aspirations and firmly believes that a developed India can be built only through empowered states, cooperative federalism, and inclusive development,” he said.

Vijay seeks Centre’s support

Education funds: Vijay urged the immediate release of ₹3,284 crore pending under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme without linking it to the New Education Policy or the three-language formula. “This should be done in the larger interest of students’ welfare, continuity of educational services, and the preservation of cooperative federalism,” he emphasised.

Housing and poverty alleviation: He sought Central assistance for the Poverty-Free Tamil Nadu Mission and affordable housing, besides permission to generate employment under the VB-G RAM-G scheme for rural housing projects.

Healthcare: He requested sanction for a second AIIMS in Coimbatore, with the state ready to provide the required land.

Youth and skills: Vijay proposed a Youth Skill and Employment Mission to benefit five lakh youth annually. He sought Central support to establish emerging technology skill centres in every district, focusing particularly on AI, deep tech, cybersecurity, EV technology, and semiconductors.

Fishermen’s issues: He also urged the Centre to protect traditional fishing rights in the Palk Bay, secure the release of Tamil Nadu fishermen detained in Sri Lanka and Pakistan, and provide enhanced support for coastal flood mitigation.

Infrastructure: He pressed for early approval of several highway and rail projects, including six-laning of key stretches of GST Road and other NH corridors, and the Chennai-Kanniyakumari High Speed Rail Corridor. He also sought declaration of the Space Manufacturing Hub at Kulasekarapattinam as a national hub.

Constructive ties with Centre

Vijay reiterated Tamil Nadu’s ambition to become a $1.5 trillion economy by 2036, aligning with the national goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047. He stressed that states demonstrating fiscal responsibility and population stabilisation should not be disadvantaged in resource allocation.

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The chief minister’s firm yet constructive tone is widely interpreted as a shift in approach from the previous DMK regime, during which there were notable differences with the Centre over disaster relief fund allocation and GST revenue sharing. Vijay’s government is now seen as attempting to resolve such issues through dialogue and negotiation while safeguarding the state’s core interests.

Political observer Sumant C Raman noted that Vijay’s government drew clear red lines. “The TVK government has not compromised on key issues. It does not accept any reduction in the number of constituencies during delimitation and remains firm on the two-language policy,” he said.