T.N. remains distinct because of policies rooted in social justice: Thangam Thennarasu

Minister for Finance Thangam Thennarasu on Friday (February 20, 2026) said the reason Tamil Nadu has remained distinct and peaceful for over a century, without any space for caste or religious hatred, lies in policies rooted in social justice.

Replying to the debate on the Interim Budget 2026-27 in the Assembly, Mr. Thennarasu said within 100 days of coming to power in 2021, the DMK government operationalised the provision enabling persons from all castes to become temple priests. With the objective of eliminating social inequalities and shaping new dimensions of social justice principles, the DMK government has ensured the welfare of women, tribal communities, transgender persons, and persons with disabilities.

The Minister also listed several flagship initiatives of the DMK government, including Naan Mudhalvan, Tamil Pudhalvan, Pudhumai Penn, Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam, Magalir Vidiyal Payanam, Anbu Karangal, Thaayumanavar, Tholkudi and the Chief Minister’s Breakfast Scheme.

Mr. Thennarasu said the DMK government had also focused on future development. “Government offices are being computerised. Public services are being delivered swiftly through online platforms. Even in the Legislative Assembly, the circulation of paper has been reduced, and legislative records, including Budget documents, are accessible on handheld tablets. Looking ahead, an AI Mission has been launched to harness artificial intelligence, which is set to bring about a major transformation in the utilisation of human resources. A Semiconductor Mission 2030 has also been launched, which will play a significant role in the ongoing industrial revolution,” he said.

Replying to the debate on the Interim Agriculture Budget, Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare M.R.K. Panneerselvam said many members spoke but none found fault. However, Leader of the Opposition Edappadi K. Palaniswami levelled allegations without knowing the facts, he said.

“Because elections are approaching, they [AIADMK] question the Agriculture Budget. During their ten-year rule, farmers consistently protested over their grievances. They received no relief, no progress, and no development. Those who failed to achieve growth are now presenting misleading statistics to the people, claiming there has been a decline in the primary sector,” he said.

“During the AIADMK regime, there was no separate Agriculture Budget. It was merely a demand for grants. No opinions were sought from farmers. Under the AIADMK government, 102 farmers died by suicide and ₹3 lakh was given to each deceased farmer’s family. However, in the last five years, there have been no farmer suicides. Farmers are happy. Whenever problems arise, including natural calamities, immediate relief is being provided,” he added.

(Assistance for overcoming suicidal thoughts is available on the State’s health helpline 104, Tele-MANAS 14416. and Sneha’s suicide prevention helpline 044-24640050)