Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Aug. 5 (ANI): Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Marie Wilson on Wednesday presented the state budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year, outlining a roadmap to transform the state into a $1.5 trillion economy by 2031.
Addressing the Legislative Assembly, Wilson praised Chief Minister Vijay’s leadership, saying his entry into public service was driven by a commitment to the people. The finance minister said the chief minister had overcome political challenges to establish a foundation for transparent governance and principled politics, adding that the administration had exceeded its initial commitments in advancing social equity.
A significant portion of the budget is dedicated to strengthening the state’s education sector. The government has allocated ₹300 crore to modernize 3,734 government schools across Tamil Nadu.
Under the “Super Clean, Super Campus” initiative, the government will improve campus hygiene and security in 10,000 schools during the first phase of the program. The scheme includes daily cleaning services, maintenance of drinking water facilities and restrooms, and enhanced campus upkeep. The government has allocated ₹139 crore for the initiative.
Wilson also formally urged the central government to restore medical college admissions based on Class 12 public examination results.
The finance minister announced the launch of the “Vetri Laptop Scheme,” under which college students will receive laptops to support digital learning and improve access to educational resources.
The education sector received a substantial increase in funding, with ₹44,527 crore allocated to the School Education Department and ₹8,393 crore allocated to the Higher Education Department.
To improve educational opportunities for rural and underserved students, the government announced the establishment of modern residential schools under the Perunthalaivar Kamarajar Model Schools program. With an initial investment of ₹125 crore, the schools will provide free education, housing, and health care for students in grades nine through 12.
The finance minister also announced plans to establish a Special Law College in Madurai and five new Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the state at an estimated cost of ₹90 crore.
Addressing the state’s finances, Wilson said Tamil Nadu’s financial liabilities had doubled over the previous five years. She said the government has adopted a more transparent tendering system to replace the earlier practice of awarding contracts to a limited group of preferred contractors or political affiliates.
The government also plans to introduce a special levy on liquor manufacturing facilities, a measure expected to generate approximately ₹1,000 crore in additional revenue.
Wilson highlighted the continued implementation of flagship welfare programs, including 200 units of free electricity for eligible consumers and the operation of a specialized rapid response force for women’s safety. She said the government remains committed to fulfilling all of its election promises through a phased implementation plan. (ANI)
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