Speaking to reporters in Tiruchy after the executive committee meeting, Veerasekaran said that the SRMU had sent a charter of 40 demands to the Union Railway Ministry but no demand has so far been fulfilled by the railway administration.

“Vande Bharat workshop is being established at Ponmalai and the workers from Tamil Nadu should be deputed,” he added. “Since SR has more employees from other states, there are several confusions over communication. We demand the transfer of other state employees to their respective states and fill the 2 lakh vacancies with the people from the southern region.”

He also appealed that those who clear the RRB exams from particular states should be appointed in their home states which would “ensure a good work environment to the employees”.

The flagship initiative, unveiled in the Revised Budget Estimates for 2026-27, will be spearheaded by the Tamil Virtual Academy to strengthen Tamil computing, develop AI-powered language tools, improve translation capabilities and expand the use of Tamil across emerging digital platforms.

Presenting the Budget in the Assembly, Finance Minister N Marie Wilson said the initiative reflected the government's vision of ensuring that Tamil remained not merely a language of history and literature, but also one equipped to thrive in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.

"Our Government is committed to preserving the richness of Tamil while ensuring that it becomes a language of the future through innovation and technology," Wilson said.

The Budget also unveiled a series of measures to promote Tamil among younger generations. A cash incentive of Rs 5,000 will be awarded to 500 students who successfully memorise 300 Thirukkural couplets, while an annual Quaid-e-Millat Award will be instituted to honour outstanding contributions to the development of Tamil.

To deepen awareness of Tamil's civilization legacy, the government will organise educational tours for students to the archaeological sites of Keezhadi, Adichanallur and Kodumanal. The Budget also proposes enhanced financial assistance for Tamil scholars and statewide essay and oratorical competitions to encourage literary excellence.

A new Road Safety Policy will be introduced, focusing on road engineering, traffic enforcement, emergency trauma care, and public awareness. To support road safety initiatives, the government has set aside Rs 200 crore under the Chief Minister's Accident Relief Fund Scheme and Rs 130 crore under the Road Safety Fund for 2026-27.

For police welfare, Rs 431 crore has been earmarked to construct residential quarters for 5,000 police families across the state. Additionally, Rs 354 crore has been allocated in the first phase for the Singappen Special Force.

To curb drug trafficking, the government announced that anti-narcotics task force units will function under the name Special Task Force for Interdiction of Narcotics and Gangs (STING). A total of 65 STING units will be established — 37 across rural districts and 28 in urban areas. These units will investigate trafficking, conduct financial probes, and initiate legal proceedings, including freezing assets linked to drug offences.

Complementing the enforcement drive, the government also announced a Rs 70 crore rehabilitation fund to support deaddiction and rehabilitation programmes for victims of substance abuse.

Presenting the 2026-27 State Budget, Finance Minister N Marie Wilson said the 118.9 km Chennai Metro Phase II project, being implemented at an estimated cost of Rs 63,246 crore, is progressing rapidly. The initial 14.64 km stretch, comprising 11 stations from Poonamallee Bypass to Porur Junction with connectivity to the existing Vadapalani station, is scheduled to be commissioned shortly.

The government is pursuing early approval from the Union government for three proposed metro corridors: Chennai Airport to Kilambakkam, Koyambedu to Pattabiram via Avadi, and Poonamallee to Sunguvarchathiram via Sriperumbudur. It is also pushing a joint proposal with the Centre and the Karnataka government to extend a metro link from Hosur in Krishnagiri district to Bommasandra in Karnataka.

To modernise public transport, 1,000 AC electric buses will be inducted into the MTC fleet during the current financial year under the GCC model. A sum of Rs 500 crore has been earmarked in the Revised Budget Estimates for electrical and mechanical infrastructure at bus depots to support these vehicles. Overall, the Budget has allocated Rs 13,561 crore to the Transport Department, which includes Rs 7,675 crore as subsidy to State Transport Undertakings, Rs 2,650 crore as performance gap funding, and Rs 1,005 crore as share capital assistance.

TAKING WHEELS

14.64 km

-- Poonamallee Bypass to Porur Junction stretch, comprising 11 stations, will be commissioned shortly

1,000

-- AC electric buses to be inducted under the GCC model; Rs 500 crore allocated for depot infra upgrades

4 CORRIDORS

TN pursuing approvals for Airport-Kilambakkam, Koyambedu-Pattabiram, Poonamallee-Sunguvarchathiram, and Hosur-Bommasandra lines

Presenting the first Budget of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government in the Assembly, Finance Minister N Marie Wilson said the proposed Space Technology Investment District would be anchored around ISRO's upcoming rocket launch facility at Kulasekarapattinam in Thoothukudi district.

He said the government would establish a Space Vehicle Common Technical Facility in collaboration with IN-SPACe, the Centre's agency responsible for promoting and facilitating private sector participation in the space sector. The facility will provide world-class infrastructure for private companies, startups and research organisations operating in the space technology ecosystem.

Finance Minister N Marie Wilson announced that the 'Thai Maaman Thanga Mothiram Thittam' would be implemented at a cost of Rs 560 crore. Under the scheme, every newborn delivered in a government hospital will receive a one-gram gold ring.

The Budget also proposed the phased rollout of 1,000 Mobile Geriatric Treatment Centres to take healthcare services to the doorsteps of senior citizens, backed by an allocation of Rs 33 crore.

To strengthen maternal care, the government announced the establishment of 'Thai Care' maternity support centres in hospitals, besides upgrading patient guidance systems and hospital signage at an outlay of Rs 23 crore.

In a major digital healthcare initiative, the government will launch a Hub-and-Spoke telemedicine network, beginning with five hubs and 200 linked healthcare centres before expanding it to 1,000 facilities across Tamil Nadu. The project has been allocated Rs 18.5 crore.

The Budget also laid the foundation for expanding cancer treatment by proposing a Hub-and-Spoke cancer care model, setting aside Rs 10 crore to prepare Detailed Project Reports for five zonal cancer hospitals.

Announcing an additional Rs 100 crore for medicine procurement, Wilson said the government was committed to making quality healthcare accessible and equitable. "Our focus is to build a healthcare system that reaches every citizen, from newborns to senior citizens," he said.

Overall, the Health and Family Welfare Department has been allocated Rs 23,357 crore in the Revised Budget Estimates for 2026-27.

Several schemes announced in the Budget are either continuations or revamped versions of existing programmes with modified nomenclature. The government's flagship housing programme, Vetri Veedu Thittam, which aims to convert huts into pucca houses, builds upon the State's long-standing rural housing initiatives.

The Budget also announced Super Clean Super Campus, a school cleanliness initiative that resembles the earlier "Engal Palli, Milirum Palli" programme introduced during the previous DMK regime.

Likewise, the proposed Perunthalaivar Kamarajar Schools of Excellence, aimed at improving hostel facilities in schools, is viewed as an extension of programmes implemented under the previous government.

Welfare schemes such as the distribution of laptops, bicycles, goats and sheep have also been implemented by successive DMK and AIADMK governments in different forms over the years.

The Annan Seer to Brides Scheme also bears resemblance to the Thalikku Thangam Scheme introduced during the AIADMK regime under former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, under which eligible women received an eight-gram gold coin for marriage assistance.

Similarly, the Budget renamed the long-running Self-Help Group programme, introduced by former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi in 1989, as the Singappengal Valimaippaduthum Thittam.

Other initiatives, including skill training for unemployed youth, crop loan waivers, and urban and rural housing schemes, have also been presented under the "Vetri" branding, although their objectives remain largely unchanged.

Among the few new welfare announcements, Thai Maaman Thanga Modhiram Thittam, which had already been announced earlier and is scheduled to be launched in September, stood out as the government's only major new populist scheme.

Explaining the limited scope for announcing new welfare programmes, the Budget document stated, "The State's fiscal position is in the red. The government has inherited a treasury burdened with debt. The process of repair has begun, but it will take at least two years to restore fiscal prudence."

Presenting the 2026-27 Budget, Minister for Finance, Planning and Development N Marie Wilson said the new policy would focus on emerging industries, strengthen manufacturing capabilities and position Tamil Nadu as a preferred investment destination.

As part of the initiative, the government will launch the Tamil Nadu Industrial Capability Directory, a comprehensive digital platform showcasing the State's manufacturing strengths and supply chain capabilities to investors.

To improve the ease of doing business, the government also announced Guidance 3.0, under which an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled Single Window Portal will be introduced to expedite industrial approvals and clearances.

In a major initiative to attract investments from the Tamil diaspora, the government will establish a Non-Resident Tamil Investment Facilitation Desk to provide dedicated assistance and handholding support to Non-Resident Tamils interested in investing in the State.

The Budget also announced that Kulasekarapattinam in Thoothukudi district would be developed as a Space Industrial Investment Zone. In collaboration with IN-SPACe, the State will establish an Advanced Space Vehicle Common Technical Facility to provide infrastructure and technological support to private enterprises, startups and research organisations in the space sector.

Finance Minister N Marie Wilson said the pilot project would be implemented at Rs 18 crore to assess consumer demand and streamline distribution before any wider rollout.

Another welfare measure at Rs 7.18 crore, under the Food and Consumer Protection Department, to deliver essential commodities at the doorsteps of senior citizens, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable sections, for Rs 7.18 crore.

Finance Minister Maria Wilson said the Rooftop Solar Subsidy Scheme would be implemented in convergence with the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. The State has earmarked Rs 50 crore for the scheme, under which domestic consumers will receive up to Rs 1 lakh to install rooftop solar panels.

TNPDCL sources said households currently receive Rs 78,000 for a 3 kW rooftop solar system under the central scheme. The State will provide an additional Rs 22,000, taking the total subsidy to Rs 1 lakh. Tamil Nadu has so far installed 85,159 rooftop solar systems benefiting 1,00,397 households.

The Budget also proposed installing smart meters for all consumers in Chennai and 50 lakh industrial and commercial consumers across the rest of the State. The Chennai distribution region, including parts of Tiruvallur district, serves about 38.8 lakh consumers.

The move marks a shift from the previous government's plan to install 3.04 crore smart meters across Tamil Nadu in two phases. TNPDCL officials said implementing smart meters across an entire distribution region would enable monthly billing through remote meter readings, eliminating manual meter reading.

To accelerate electric mobility, the government announced that 20,000 public EV charging stations will be set up over the next five years through the public-private partnership (PPP) mode, with Rs 50 crore allocated this financial year. A separate Rs 5 crore subsidy scheme was announced to help Resident Welfare Associations install EV charging facilities in residential complexes.

The Budget also announced the construction of 178 new substations at a cost of Rs 1,543 crore and the phased replacement of 40,000 ageing transformers with an investment of Rs 2,000 crore.

With power demand expected to cross 37,000 MW by 2035-36, the government will introduce a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Promotion Policy to attract private investment and position Tamil Nadu as India's BESS hub.

EV PUSH

~ 20,000 public EV charging stations to be set up in 5 years under PPP mode; Rs 5 crore subsidy announced for RWAs

~ All 38.8 lakh power consumers in Chennai and 50 lakh industrial and commercial users statewide to get smart meters

Finance Minister N Marie Wilson said the Corporation would focus on developing the palmyra sector and supporting farmers cultivating the palmyra tree, the State tree of Tamil Nadu.

The Rs 16-crore allocation will be utilised for initiatives such as neera processing, palm jaggery production, and the promotion and export of value-added palm products. The Corporation will also undertake measures to enhance the livelihood of farmers engaged in palmyra cultivation.

The government will establish the Tirupur Textiles Technology Centre (TTTC) with an allocation of Rs 10 crore to provide advanced technological support, research, product development and skill upgradation for the knitwear and garment industry. The initiative is expected to enhance the global competitiveness of Tirupur, India's leading knitwear export cluster.

The Budget also proposed preparing a Detailed Project Report for the Tamil Nadu Institute of Design, envisaged as a specialised institution to foster design innovation and improve product development across the handloom, handicrafts and textile sectors.

As part of the heritage conservation programme, the government will restore 250 temple tanks, recognising their ecological, religious and historical significance, besides renovating 75 temple cars used during annual festivals.

The government will take up the restoration of 213 temples that are more than 1,000 years old at an estimated cost of Rs 418 crore, with priority being given to preserving ancient structures of archaeological and architectural importance.

The Minister also informed that trustees had been appointed to 9,205 temples, with allocation of Rs 708 crore for the HR&CE Department.

The TVK-led government’s maiden budget that was presented on Wednesday (August 5) was an exercise in restraint where repair and fiscal consolidation priority over even poll promises.

Less than two months after it released a White Paper on State’s financial situation, a move to score political points over its rivals, the government would continue on the same path of huge borrowings and sizeable deficit, both of which it justified as part of running a State that is on the rise.

There were indeed new measures, ranging from the populist one-sovereign gold and silk saree for brides (Annan Seer Scheme) to future-focused ones like ‘Arivagam’, touted as India’s first dedicated AI and Innovation city. There were also ones like 200 integrated student hostels with one lakh beds, phased rollout of smart electricity meters, and renewable energy push.

Then there was the renaming drive, from free laptops for college students, skill training scheme, goat rearing scheme for women, housing scheme, etc. that were given the TVK’s favourite prefix, ‘Vetri’.

And then there were complaints of some of the key promises, like enhancing the monthly dole for women to Rs 2,500, not figuring in the budget.

Beyond these were the crucial numbers. Like Rs 1.22 lakh crore, the amount that Tamil Nadu will borrow this financial year, a record high. The deficit has come down marginally from the Budget Estimate that the then DMK government presented just before the Assembly elections.

Briefing reporters after Finance Minister N Marie Wilson presented the Revised Budget, Finance Secretary MA Siddique got to the crux of the matter: “Debt will continue to rise every year. It cannot be reduced even over the next 50 years.”

The State would raise Rs 1.22 lakh crore during 2026-27, and had already borrowed about Rs 21,000 crore in the April-June quarter, he said. But qualifying these astronomical figures, he added, “The important consideration is that borrowings remain within the limits prescribed by the government of India and are backed by the State's repayment capacity.”

Defending the government's borrowing strategy, Siddique said, "Borrowing is not wrong if it creates productive assets and supports development. The only sustainable way to reduce the debt burden is by increasing the State's revenues."

Siddique said the government had adopted a balanced approach that sought to revive the State's finances without disrupting existing welfare programmes. "The State's financial position was under severe stress three months ago. We have taken measures to increase revenue and improve expenditure efficiency. The fiscal situation cannot be corrected in a single year; it will require at least two years," he said.

He, however, reaffirmed the ruling TVK government's commitment to its election promises, including the flagship monthly assistance of Rs 2,500 for women heads of families.

"All the major promises under the 'Vetri Tamizhagam' programme will be implemented. Fiscal consolidation must come first. The Rs 2,500 assistance scheme will be rolled out within a year, while the remaining flagship schemes will be introduced in phases over the coming years," he said.

On the long-pending demand for restoration of the Old Pension Scheme, Siddique said the government had neither accepted nor rejected the proposal. "No decision has been taken. The status quo continues," he said.

The Finance Secretary disclosed that around Rs 7,000 crore in dues from the Union government was yet to be released to Tamil Nadu. He also asserted that no existing welfare scheme had been discontinued despite the difficult fiscal situation.

Responding to criticism over the use of public-private partnerships, Siddique said infrastructure creation through private participation should not be mistaken for privatisation of public services.

"Providing healthcare is the government's responsibility, but constructing hospitals need not necessarily be. PPP enables quality infrastructure to be created at lower cost while public service delivery remains with the government," he said.

He also dismissed concerns over school education spending, noting that the revised allocation of Rs 44,527 crore remained higher than the previous year's actual expenditure despite rationalisation from the Interim Budget, while maintaining that the government's commitment to education and welfare remained intact.

The department has outlined a series of major civic projects, including the eco-restoration of the Cooum and Adyar rivers, interconnecting water sources for round-the-clock drinking water supply across Chennai, prioritising pedestrian safety, and introducing smart parking management.

A flagship highlight of the budget is the rejuvenation of Chennai's iconic waterways, the Cooum and Adyar rivers. Drawing inspiration from globally acclaimed eco-restoration projects such as Seoul's Cheonggyecheon River and Singapore's Kallang River, the government will invite global tenders to prepare Detailed Feasibility Reports (DFR) and Detailed Project Reports (DPR).

Criticising previous regimes for spending hundreds of crores without tangible outcomes, Finance Minister Wilson emphasised that the government aims to transform these polluted waterways into vibrant public spaces featuring recreational boating, safe play zones, and clean riverside exercise tracks.

To ensure long-term drinking water security, the budget allocates Rs 3,108 crore to the Ring Main Pipeline system project. Scheduled for completion by 2030–31, this critical network will interconnect all major water sources with distribution stations to ensure equitable, 24x7 clean drinking water supply across the city.

Urban development initiatives will be executed under the Chief Minister's Integrated Urban Development Mission with an allocation of Rs 2,117 crore. Functioning as an umbrella scheme, it encompasses urban transit, underground sewerage networks, integrated solid waste management, water body protection, green space expansion, AI-driven e-governance, women and child safety, and an Urban Public Health improvement mission. The scheme aims to eliminate civic infrastructure gaps and make Tamil Nadu a national role model in urban governance by 2031.

For the Greater Chennai Corporation, which serves 91 lakh residents, the budget advances key mobility and safety projects. The Intelligent Transport Management System, developed alongside the Chennai City Police and the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC), is entering its final implementation phase. Additionally, a comprehensive mobility plan will introduce smart parking management across 20 key urban locations and revamp industrial roads in Ambattur and Guindy.

To build flood resilience, blue-green infrastructure projects will be deployed around Chennai's water bodies and secured with retaining walls. Civic water channels are also being elevated with chain-link fences to enhance discharge capacity and mitigate urban flooding. Furthermore, municipal corporations across the State will develop people-friendly streets equipped with dedicated cycling paths, green footpaths, improved junctions, modern LED lighting, and safe school zones.



RS 30K-CR PUSH TO MAWS

Rs 29,863 cr
-- MAWS allocation hiked from previous year's Rs 26,678 cr to boost civic infra across Tamil Nadu

Rs 3,108 cr
-- Outlay for 24x7 water supply; ring main pipeline system project targets citywide water grid interconnection by 2030–31

Another Inspector T Saravanan, who was part of the team, has been transferred to vacancy reserve by the top brass of the city police after complaints against him.

On Monday, police arrested Inspector Muhammed Buhari, attached to the St Thomas Mount Police Station, after a businessman filed a complaint alleging that he has been repeatedly demanding money from him over the past two years citing a mobile number linked to the businessman which has come up during investigations into TN BSP leader Armstrong’s murder.

Inspector Buhari was involved in the police shooting in which one of the suspects in Armstrong murder case, Thiruvenkadam, was shot dead in July 2024. Buhari was also involved in a subsequent police shooting, in which a suspect allegedly involved in a series of chain snatchings in Chennai was shot dead in March 2025.

According to PR Pandian, president of the Coordination Committee of All Farmers Association, the water resources department in Tamil Nadu was in a state of neglect for several years and no government previously allocated proper funds to implement projects under the department.

“But the present State budget, presented by the Finance Minister N Marie Wilson, had allocated a fund of Rs 9,264 crore to the department which would augment the irrigation infrastructure in the State," Pandian said.

He also lauded the allocation of Rs 10,000 crore for dairy development, Rs 110 crore for goat rearing, Rs 150 crore for the Cauvery-Gundar linking project, Rs 1,762 crore for developing mangrove forests across the State and Rs 25 crore for tackling the El Nino.

Similarly, Swamimalai Sundara Vimalnathan, Secretary, Tamil Nadu Cauvery Farmers Protection Association, lauded the initial fund allocation of Rs 10 crore for the check dam at Kollidam and Cauvery.

However, A Thajudeen, General Secretary, Tamil Nadu Meenavar Peravai, said that the fishermen were upset that the budget did not announce the increase of subsidised diesel from 1,900 litres per month to 3,500 litres as per the poll promise. He also expressed dissatisfaction that the promise of a fishermen dole of Rs 20,000 from Rs 8,000 was not included in the budget.

Meanwhile, the Karur Textile Manufacturers Exporters' Association (KTMEA) welcomed the 2026 Budget and appreciated the Government's continued commitment towards industrial growth, infrastructure development, skill enhancement, and strengthening the textile sector.

According to P Gopalakrishnan, president of KTMEA, the budget allocation of Rs 1,678 crore for Handlooms and Textiles, Rs 2,022 crore for Labour Welfare and Skill Development, and Rs 4,414 crore for the Industries Department, along with announcements relating to the Tirupur Textile Technology Centre, Technical Textiles Transformation Scheme, Loom Modernisation Scheme, SIPCOT industrial parks, logistics infrastructure, Green Energy Corridor, power infrastructure, AI initiatives, and TN Single Window 3.0, will enhance the long-term competitiveness of state's textile industry and attract fresh investments.

He said that Karur, being one of India's largest home textile export clusters, is expecting a few dedicated initiatives to further strengthen its global competitiveness.

KTMEA is confident that, with continued partnership between the Government and industry, Tamil Nadu will further consolidate its position as India's leading textile manufacturing and export destination and significantly contribute towards the State's vision of becoming a $1.5 trillion economy by 2035–36, added Gopalakrishnan.

Speaking to reporters outside the Assembly after the Budget was presented, Udhayanidhi said the government had simply affixed new labels to existing welfare schemes.

"The government has merely pasted a sticker on schemes that were already being implemented during the DMK regime," he alleged.

Referring to the Thai Maaman Thanga Modhiram Scheme, Udhayanidhi claimed that during the election campaign, TVK president and now Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay had promised to provide a gold ring to all newborns, whereas the Budget restricted the benefit to children born in government hospitals.

"The Budget contains none of the major promises made during the election campaign. Only the names of the schemes have been changed, while the schemes themselves were implemented during the DMK regime," he said.

Former Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu also criticised the Budget, saying the government's own figures contradicted the claims made in its White Paper on the State's finances.

Speaking at Anna Arivalayam, Thennarasu said that during the DMK regime, the projected revenue expenditure for 2026-27 was Rs 3.93 lakh crore, whereas the present Budget had increased it to Rs 4.05 lakh crore.

He further claimed that while the net borrowing projected during the DMK regime was Rs 1 lakh crore, the present Budget had increased it to Rs 1.22 lakh crore.

"The Budget itself proves that the allegations made against the previous DMK government in the White Paper on the State's fiscal position were false," Thennarasu alleged.

Rajmohan said that while the DMK's 2025-26 Budget allocated Rs 46,767 crore for school education, the actual expenditure stood at only Rs 42,351 crore.

Despite introducing no new schemes in its interim budget for 2026-27, the previous government increased the allocation to Rs 48,534 crore through what he described as inflated salary provisions and expenditure estimates, creating an unjustified rise of nearly Rs 6,003 crore.

"After assuming office, the TVK government reviewed and rationalised these estimates, eliminating unnecessary allocations. As a result, it has earmarked Rs 44,527 crore for school education, representing an actual increase of around Rs 2,176 crore over the previous year's real expenditure," stated Rajmohan.

He also noted that the Finance Secretary had clarified the figures and assured that the funds would be effectively utilised to benefit students, teachers, and the school education system.

 A few days ago, the man, along with his three associates, took Sanjay in a car to a secluded location on Siruvani Main Road, assaulted him before snatching his gold chain and two gold rings, took him to a nearby ATM and withdrew Rs 5,000 from his bank account before leaving him.

Based on Sanjay’s complaint, the Perur police nabbed the accused identified as Adhvik alias Selvam (27), Sakthi Vijay (25), Ramsundar (24) and Sudalaimani (26), all hailing from Tirunelveli, and recovered the stolen jewels, cash and car used in the crime.

Announcing the schedule after the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting on Wednesday, Assembly Speaker JCD Prabhakar said the session would continue till September 8, with breaks on government holidays.

The Speaker said four days had been allotted for the general discussion on the General Budget and the Agriculture Budget.

Following the completion of the general debate, the Assembly will take up the Demands for Grants department-wise from August 17, beginning with the Revenue Department.

Finance Minister N Marie Wilson said the State would continue to safeguard Tamil Nadu's rights over Cauvery waters through legal, technical, and administrative measures. He added that the government plans to implement the Anaimalaiyar and Nallar dam projects, as well as ensure the early execution of the Godavari-Cauvery river linking project to bolster long-term water security for farmers.

To accelerate intra-state river interlinking, the Cauvery-Vaigai-Gundar project will commence this year with an initial allocation of Rs 150 crore. Another Rs 50 crore has been set aside for preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the Pennaiyar-Cheyyar, Pennaiyar-Palar, and Tamirabarani-Vaippar river linking projects.

For the river restoration drive, Rs 25 crore has been allocated to conduct feasibility studies and prepare DPRs covering sewage and effluent treatment infrastructure, solid waste management, riverfront development, and surface cleaning.

In addition, Rs 10 crore has been allocated for feasibility studies on constructing barrages across the Cauvery to boost groundwater recharge, irrigation, and monsoon water conservation. Another Rs 10 crore has been earmarked for a project report on the ecological restoration of the Cauvery delta region.

Overall, the government has provided Rs 9,264 crore to the Water Resources Department in the Revised Budget Estimates for the current financial year.

Presenting the 2026-27 Budget, Minister for Finance N Marie Wilson said the new State Housing Scheme would exclusively benefit families living in huts.

"The Government is launching a new State Housing Scheme named Vetri Veedu Thittam exclusively for hut-dwelling families. The unit cost has been enhanced from Rs 3.10 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. In the first year, 70,000 houses will be sanctioned at an estimated cost of Rs 3,500 crore," the Minister said.

He said the Rural Development department would undertake a door-to-door survey to identify eligible beneficiaries for the scheme.

The Minister also announced the Tamil Nadu Village Empowerment, Transformation and Rejuvenation Initiative (TN-VETRI), an umbrella programme aimed at integrating all major rural infrastructure schemes with an annual outlay of Rs 6,000 crore.

Under the initiative, projects relating to drinking water supply, sanitation, solid waste management and other rural infrastructure would be implemented in a coordinated manner. A high-level committee, chaired by the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, will oversee the implementation of the scheme.

'Vetri 150' Scheme

The Budget also announced the 'Vetri 150' Scheme, under which beneficiaries of the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) [VB-GRAM(G)] who complete 125 days of employment will be provided an additional 25 days of work, taking the total to 150 days for vulnerable and needy households. To implement this scheme, the government will additionally allocate Rs 100 crore.

The Budget further stated that the State government has contributed Rs 5,057 crore towards its share of the rural employment programme under the 60:40 funding pattern, replacing the earlier 75:25 sharing formula.

Presenting the Revised Budget Estimates for 2026-27 in the Assembly, Finance Minister N Marie Wilson announced that the new Kuruvai Package Scheme would be implemented at a cost of Rs 134 crore, benefiting paddy cultivators in both delta and non-delta regions. The move marks a departure from the conventional region-specific approach and seeks to support farmers facing changing climatic conditions and irrigation challenges across the State.

Presenting the Revised Budget Estimates for 2026-27 in the Assembly, Finance Minister N Marie Wilson announced that the new Kuruvai Package Scheme would be implemented at a cost of Rs 134 crore, benefiting paddy cultivators in both delta and non-delta regions. The move marks a departure from the conventional region-specific approach and seeks to support farmers facing changing climatic conditions and irrigation challenges across the State.

"The Government remains steadfast in protecting the interests of farmers and will continue to provide the support necessary for sustainable agriculture and enhanced productivity," Wilson said while presenting the Budget.

Alongside the cultivation package, the Budget allocated Rs 7,432 crore towards electricity subsidy for the agricultural sector, ensuring uninterrupted free power supply for irrigation and reducing input costs for farmers.

The expanded Kuruvai package is expected to provide timely support ahead of the cultivation season while encouraging paddy production beyond the traditional delta belt, reflecting the government's attempt to make agricultural assistance more inclusive and region-neutral.

The Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Department has been allocated Rs 14,984 crore in the Revised Budget Estimates for 2026-27, with the expanded Kuruvai Package Scheme emerging as its marquee new initiative.

Presenting the Revised Budget Estimates for 2026-27 in the Assembly, Finance Minister N Marie Wilson said the enhanced relief would benefit 1.93 lakh fishing families across the State at an outlay of Rs 135 crore.

The increase comes amid long-standing demands from fishermen's associations for higher financial support during the mandatory fishing ban, when mechanised fishing activities are suspended to conserve marine resources, leaving thousands of families without a regular source of income.

"The Government remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of fishermen by strengthening livelihood support and promoting sustainable fishing practices," Wilson said while presenting the Budget.

In another key announcement, the government proposed an interest subsidy for deep-sea fishing boats equipped with modern fish processing facilities, with an allocation of Rs 12 crore. The initiative is intended to encourage fishermen to venture into deep-sea fishing, reduce pressure on near-shore marine resources and improve the value of fish catches through onboard processing infrastructure.

The weather department has forecast heavy rainfall at isolated places, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching 40–50 km/h over The Nilgiris and the Ghat areas of Coimbatore, Theni, and Tirunelveli districts over the next couple of days.

Additionally, moderate rainfall with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching 40–50 kmph is likely in the remaining Western Ghat districts, as well as Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, Ranipet, Vellore, Tirupattur, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Tiruchirappalli, Karur, Madurai, Puducherry, and Karaikal until August 7, said RMC.

On August 8 and 9, moderate rain is expected to continue across the Western Ghat districts, as well as Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, Ranipet, Vellore, Tirupattur, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Tiruchirappalli, Karur, Madurai, and Puducherry.

In Chennai, the maximum temperature is expected to reach 36 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature will dip to 25 degrees Celsius. Sky conditions are likely to remain partly cloudy on August 6.

During the overnight hours on Tuesday, the city experienced light to moderate rainfall. On Wednesday, the highest rainfall was recorded at Korattur, Manali New Town, and Pallikaranai, with 7 cm each. Medavakkam, Madipakkam, and Nerkundram

Categorically stating that granting bail to the petitioners at this stage would hamper the investigation, Justice K Rajasekar accepted the submissions made by the prosecution while dismissing the petitions.

The Court noted that the prosecution had submitted that there was frequent telephonic communication between the petitioners — sub-registrar Manikandan, who registered the document, and Jayaprakash — before and during the registration of the document.

“The Call Detail Record particulars revealed repeated phone calls between them. Further, the CCTV footage collected from Joint-I Sub Registrar Office, Palani, has revealed material circumstances, which establishes the interaction of the petitioners on July 3, the date on which the disputed document was re-presented and kept pending by the then Sub Registrar, Balasundar and on joining of Manikandan on July 6, the document was registered in Document No.1446/2026,” the Judge referred this prosecution submission while dismissing their bail petitions

The Judge referred to this submission of the prosecution while dismissing the bail petitions.

The Court further stated that despite the then sub-registrar Balasundar had specifically recorded in the minutes book after completing the initial registration process, the Writ Appeal had been filed by the temple authorities challenging the order directing to register the document. “However, without considering these minutes and remarks recorded by Balasundar, the accused Manikandan straightaway completed the registration process by assigning the document number. This clearly reveals that he did not act bona fide but intentionally acted to benefit the other accused,” the Court observed.

The prosecution further submitted that there was a close association between the petitioners and Anwardeen, the fifth accused in the case. According to the prosecution, Anwardeen had been actively involved in fabricating records and had taken several steps to grab the property since 1998.

The prosecution further informed the Court that Anwardeen, who was arrested by the CB-CID, had disclosed various facts regarding the manner in which the sale deed came to be registered and the steps allegedly taken by the accused to compel the Registration Department to complete the registration.

In his anticipatory bail petition, Justin Manikandan contended that the entire registration process had already been completed by the previous sub-registrar and that his role was limited to assigning the registration number after assuming charge. He further contended that he had merely complied with an earlier High Court direction to register the sale deed and had no role in the alleged conspiracy. Based on these submissions, the High Court had granted him conditional anticipatory bail on July 27.

Jayaprakash had also filed an anticipatory bail petition in connection with the case. As both petitions involved the same crime, the Court heard them together and dismissed them.

Justice GK Ilanthiraiyan directed the State-run corporation to issue necessary instructions to all Tasmac outlets across Tamil Nadu to maintain bill books for every sale of liquor bottles. The court also directed all outlets to issue bills to consumers for every bottle sold and to ensure that queues are properly maintained while selling liquor.

These directions were issued while the court was hearing a petition filed by G Devarajan before the Madras High Court seeking a direction to the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) and the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) to register cases under the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act against employees of 30 Tasmac outlets, including those in Perambur, Koyambedu, Manali, Kolathur, and Madhavaram, for allegedly selling liquor above the maximum retail price.

During the hearing, the Tasmac managing director submitted that 5 of the 30 shops identified by the petitioner had already been closed. Upon examining the records, the court found that while the Tasmac outlets maintained details such as the opening balance, inward bottles, bottles sold, and the amount collected from consumers, they were not maintaining bill books nor issuing bills to consumers for their purchases.

The corporation also failed to produce the purchase orders and records indicating the dates on which liquor bottles were supplied to the respective outlets.

The matter has been posted to August 7 for reporting compliance.

To place an order, customers must confirm that they are above the legal drinking age of 21. They can then use the Shop Locator to find a nearby outlet by selecting a search radius between 5 km and 25 km, or search for a shop using its number or district. Customers can also order from any Tasmac outlet in the State, irrespective of where they are located.

Once a shop is selected, the portal displays the liquor brands currently available at that outlet. Customers can browse the stock, add the required items to the cart, enter their mobile number, verify it using an OTP and complete the payment online.

After the payment is successful, the portal generates a receipt containing a QR code. Then, visit the selected Tasmac outlet on the same day and present the QR code at the billing counter to collect the order. According to the instructions released by Tasmac, orders that are not collected on the same day will be cancelled, with Rs 10 deducted as a fee and the remaining amount refunded.

Tasmac has also outlined the procedure to be followed by sales staff while processing online orders. On the billing device, the salesperson must first select the Retail Sale option and then Online Order. After verifying the order, the printed receipt must be handed over to the customer.

The portal is available in both Tamil and English and displays the route to the selected Tasmac outlet after the purchase.

It also allows customers to view the MRP and supplier details of liquor brands. The online inventory is updated every 30 minutes. If a product shown on the portal goes out of stock before the order is completed, Tasmac has said the amount will either be refunded or the customer can purchase the product from another outlet.

Justice GK Ilanthiraiyan granted anticipatory bail to Idhayavarman and directed him to appear before the Mahabalipuram Police Station daily for two weeks by signing before the police.

The former MLA had filed an anticipatory bail petition before the Madras High Court, stating that he had visited the desalination plant on July 5, 2026, after receiving information that Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) officials had covered a plaque bearing the name of former Chief Minister MK Stalin with green safety nets during the incumbent Chief Minister’s visit.

CMWSSB Assistant Engineer V Malarselvam, alleging that Idhayavarman, along with two others, entered the desalination plant on the night of July 5, ripped the safety nets, and caused a loss of Rs 10,000 to the public exchequer, following which the police registered an FIR.

Senthilbalaji’s counsel submitted before Justice GK Ilanthiraiyan that a Division Bench headed by the Chief Justice had stayed the Triplicane Police investigation and sought relaxation of the condition requiring him to appear before the Investigating Officer twice daily.

Accepting the submission, Justice dispensed with the twice-daily appearance condition, while clarifying that the police are at liberty to issue summons and secure Senthilbalaji’s presence whenever required for the purpose of investigation.

The case arose from a complaint lodged by TVK MLA N Ilaiyaraja, who alleged that Thirunavukkarasu offered him Rs 35 crore to vote against the Speaker in a proposed no-confidence motion in the Assembly and later threatened him and his family after he refused. Based on the complaint, the Triplicane Police registered a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

According to the prosecution, Thirunavukkarasu acted at the instance of Senthilbalaji and his brother Ashok Kumar. On July 8, the Madras High Court granted them conditional anticipatory bail, directing them to surrender before the Principal Sessions Court, execute bonds, and report before the Triplicane Police twice daily until further orders.

Senthilbalaji subsequently moved the High Court seeking exemption from the reporting condition, stating that unavoidable circumstances had prevented him from appearing before the police between July 31 and August 4. He undertook to resume compliance from August 5 and contended that the temporary exemption would not affect the investigation.

Speaking to reporters in Tiruchy, Thirumavalavan said that the Finance Minister N Marie Wilson carrying a rosary along with the budget documents before presenting was not debatable as the Constitution law allows everyone’s beliefs despite it recommends secularism.

“Though Periyar criticised encouraging the religious sentiments, Dr Ambedkar was firm to ensure diversified beliefs should be needed in the constitution,” he added.

The veteran leader explained that though Bengaluru could get required drinking water from KSR, the Karnataka government was firm on constructing Mekedatu dam and that the politicians from Karnataka were united on this issue. “In the same way, political parties in Tamil Nadu should stand together for Cauvery rights. The Chief Minister should convene an all-party meeting shedding his stubbornness and hear what the leaders from all the political parties convey and fight together for the Cauvery rights,” Thiruma said.

Speaking to reporters in Ariyalur, Thirumavalavan

Welcoming the State Budget for allocating more funds for the social justice department, Thirumavalavan also lauded the increase of Rs 5 lakh for the Kalaingar Kanavu Thittam renamed as Vettri Veedu Thittam based on the request from VCK. He also appreciated the Chief Minister for allowing the social justice department to act independently and spend the entire fund for the welfare schemes.

The CB-CID arrested Murugadas, who allegedly executed the sale of the land; Vellathurai and Sethupathi, who allegedly purchased it; and advocate Anwardeen (65) of Goundankulam near Palani on July 29.

The four were produced before Dindigul Judicial Magistrate (I) P Bhakkiyaraj under police escort and were remanded in judicial custody till August 12. They were subsequently lodged in the Madurai Central Prison.

The CB-CID later moved the Dindigul Judicial Magistrate Court seeking police custody of the four accused for custodial interrogation. Deputy Superintendent Ajay Thangam submitted the progress of the investigation and explained the need for custodial interrogation. The Magistrate also questioned Murugadas and Vellathurai before passing orders. Allowing the petition, the Magistrate granted the CB-CID three-day police custody of all four accused for further interrogation.

Based on a complaint lodged by Muruganandam, Superintendent of the Palani Temple Lands Division, the Palani Adivaram police registered a case against Sub-Registrar Justin Manikandan, trust functionary Murugadas, purchaser Vellathurai, Sethupathi and others on charges of criminal conspiracy and cheating. The investigation was subsequently transferred to the CB-CID.

The three arrested have been identified as Prabhakaran alias Ashraf (36) of Katpadi in Vellore, Shahinsha (30) of Tondiarpet in Chennai, and Mohammed Zakir alias Ummakka (56) of Ilayangudi in Sivaganga. A special police team arrested them on August 2 and 3, and they were remanded in judicial custody.

According to police sources, Ashraf allegedly played a key role in providing technical expertise to other members of the syndicate who were involved in processing and refining methamphetamine through the mixing of chemical ingredients in the required proportions at a clandestine laboratory in Ilayangudi.

Officials said the interrogation of Shahinsha and Mohammed Zakir revealed that, apart from supplying the drug in Tamil Nadu, the network allegedly extended to Kerala, some northern States, and Sri Lanka.The police said the syndicate functioned as a well-organised network, with members assigned specific roles, including procuring raw materials; manufacturing, processing, and distributing the drug; collecting sale proceeds; and handling financial transactions. The investigation is under way to identify and apprehend other members of the network.

Earlier, the police had arrested nine persons and seized 1.5 kg of methamphetamine worth Rs 2 crore, besides chemicals and equipment allegedly used to manufacture the drug at a laboratory operating from a lathe workshop in Ilayangudi in Sivaganga.

The government is set to implement the 'Super Clean Super Campus' scheme. Under this, daily cleaning activities, maintenance of drinking water facilities and toilets, and 24-hour security for school campuses are to be ensured. The scheme will be implemented in 10,000 schools in the first phase, with an allocation of Rs 139 crore.

To modernise government schools and provide necessary infrastructure, 'Palli Niraivu Thittam' is set to be introduced at an estimated cost of Rs 2,132 crore. This scheme will cover a total of 3,734 schools, including 2,514 primary schools, 365 middle schools, and 855 high and higher secondary schools.

Focusing on students from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, the government will establish 'Perunthalaivar Kamarajar Schools of Excellence' as modern residential institutions for students from Classes 9 to 12. An amount of Rs 125 crore is allocated for the infrastructure development of these schools.

For the curriculum change works which commenced during the DMK government, Rs 25 crore has been allocated. The curriculum change has already been implemented for Classes 1, 2 and 3, and changes for the remaining classes are likely to be expected from the next academic year.

Furthermore, to curb drug usage among youth and students, the TN government has allotted Rs 7 crore. To strengthen awareness, the 10581 helpline number will be displayed on all school campuses. Also, the usage of the 'Drug-Free Tamil Nadu' mobile application is to be encouraged.

To specifically transform public libraries into state-wide digital libraries, the government has allocated Rs 10 crore. Keeping up with the old scheme, modern, branded bicycles equipped with helmets and water bottles are to be provided to 5.32 lakh students studying in class 11 in government and aided schools.

Meanwhile, the line up of budgets of previous years are: Rs 32,599 crore in 2021-22, Rs 36,895 crore in 2022-23, Rs 40,299 crore in 2023-24, Rs 44,042 crore in 2024-25, Rs 46,767 crore in 2025-26 and Rs 48,534 crore in 2026-27 mid-term budget.

"Reducing the budget for departments like school and higher education is more serious than one can argue. There are already serious financial constraints and long-pending demands from teachers/professors that remain unaddressed. Reducing the budget will further deepen these concerns, " said a former vice-chancellor of Anna University.

Reacting to the TVK government's maiden budget, he said, "... look at the allocation for the education department every year during the DMK regime... our leader (M K Stalin) had allocated Rs 48,500 crore for education in the last budget. Now, reducing it, they have allocated only Rs 44,500 crore this time." The LoP alleged the budget cut as a step backward for the state, contrasting it with what he called the comprehensive focus on education, healthcare, and industrial growth that characterised the DMK's regime's fiscal planning.

Taking aim at the ruling government's first 100 days in office, he dismissed the administration's performance and termed the state budget as a "big zero".

Addressing the media, the opposition leader accused the state government of engaging in a mere cosmetic overhaul of existing welfare initiatives, alleging that the ruling party has essentially pasted TVK's 'Vetri' (victory) stickers on the previous 'Dravidian Model' schemes introduced by former Chief Minister Stalin.

Udhayanidhi also slamed the government for not incresing the financial assistance for women to Rs 2,500 in the budget.

In his Budget address, the minister stated that the construction of Phase II of the Chennai Metro Rail Project, spanning 118.9 km across three corridors at an estimated completion cost of Rs 63,246 crore, is progressing at full speed.

The first stretch of Phase II, from Poonamallee Bypass to Porur Junction, connecting the existing Vadapalani Metro station and spanning 14.64 km across 11 Metro stations, is scheduled to be commissioned shortly.

Recommended by the state, the Chennai Airport-Kilambakkam, Koyambedu-Pattabiram (via Avadi) and Poonamallee-Sunguvarchathiram (via Sriperumbudur) Metro Rail projects are under the active consideration of the Central government, he said.

The state government is pursuing all steps to obtain early approval from the Government of India for these additional Metro rail lines.

He said: "Government is also pursuing a proposal for Metro Rail from Hosur, Krishnagiri district, to Bommasandra in Karnataka with both the Government of India and Government of Karnataka."

Bommasandra is close to both Bengaluru and Hosur.

The government, he said, recognises the need for modernisation of the fleet of the State transport undertakings of Tamil Nadu.

Hence, he said: "With this objective, the government will operate electric buses under the gross cost contract model. During the current financial year, 1,000 new air-conditioned electric buses will be procured for the Chennai Metropolitan Transport Corporation."

A sum of Rs 500 crore has been allocated in the revised Budget Estimates to provide electrical and mechanical fixtures for these buses at the bus depots.

A sum of Rs 7,675 crore has been provided in the revised Budget Estimates as subsidy to the State transport undertakings, Rs 2,650 crore as performance gap funding, and Rs 1,005 crore as share capital assistance.

In the revised Budget Estimates, Rs 13,561 crore is being allocated for the Transport Department.

GRP Circle Officer Rajesh Dixit said the railway authorities at Gwalior alerted the GRP around 5 am that a suitcase kept near the rear end of a general coach of the train was oozing what appeared to be blood and emitting a foul smell.

After the train reached Agra Cantt station, personnel of the GRP and the Railway Protection Force (RPF) recovered the suitcase from the coach.

"When the suitcase was opened, some human body parts were found inside," Dixit said.

The remains have been sent for post-mortem examination.

The officer said the body parts were wrapped in paper carrying a Chennai logo, following which an investigation team was dispatched to Chennai.

Police are also examining CCTV footage from railway stations where the train halted to ascertain when and by whom the suitcase was placed inside the coach, he added.

Reviving one of former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa’s most popular rural welfare initiatives, the Tamil Nadu government on Wednesday announced the return of the free milch cow distribution scheme while unveiling a new goat rearing programme for vulnerable women, signalling a renewed push to strengthen rural livelihoods through the livestock sector.

TN Budget 2026: For AI-based assistive devices, differently-abled to get 50% or Rs 30K financial assistance

For the welfare of Persons with Disabilities, the Tamil Nadu government has announced financial assistance of up to 50 percent, or up to Rs 30,000, for the purchase of AI-based assistive devices. And, for the Welfare of Differently-Abled Department, the government has allotted Rs 1,485 crore.

TN Budget 2026: Govt allocates Rs 9,818 crore for welfare of women, trans persons and senior citizens

The Tamil Nadu government has announced a series of welfare initiatives under the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, with a total allocation of Rs 9,818 crore focusing on women, children, senior citizens and the transgender community.

TN Budget 2026: TVK govt blames previous DMK regime for fiscal stress, says reforms have generated Rs 15,000 crore

The TVK-led Tamil Nadu government on Wednesday accused the previous DMK regime of allowing the State's revenue-earning departments to "bleed uncontrollably" and permitting public funds to be siphoned off through middlemen.

"The previous government allowed revenue-earning departments to bleed uncontrollably, while permitting a significant portion of public money spent on works to be extracted by unscrupulous middlemen. Since assuming office, this government has made continuous efforts to plug leakages on both the revenue and expenditure sides, enabling it to mobilise nearly Rs 15,000 crore," the Budget document stated.

TN Budget 2026: A bird's eye view

Total size of the Budget

• Total Receipts: Rs 3,50,766 crore

• Total Disbursements: Rs 4,72,585 crore

• Deficit: Rs 1,21,819 crore

Sources of revenue

• State's Own Tax Revenue: Rs 2,26,740 crore

• State's Own Non-Tax Revenue: Rs 27,835 crore

• Grants-in-Aid from Union Government: Rs 32,921 crore

• Share in Central Taxes: Rs 62,531 crore

Revenue expenditure

• Salaries: Rs 91,032 crore

• Subsidies and Grants: Rs 1,74,494 crore

• Pension and Retirement Benefits: Rs 41,846 crore

• Interest Payments: Rs 78,682 crore

• Operation and Maintenance: Rs 19,748 crore

How one rupee is mobilised

• State's Own Tax Revenue – 43.3%

• Share in Central Taxes – 11.9%

• Grants-in-Aid from Union Government – 6.3%

• State's Own Non-Tax Revenue – 5.3%

• Recovery of Loans and Capital Receipts – 0.1%

How one rupee is spent

• Subsidies and Grants – 33.2%

• Salaries – 17.3%

• Interest Payments – 15.0%

• Capital Expenditure – 10.9%

• Repayment of Debt – 9.9%

• Pension and Retirement Benefits – 8.0%

• Operation and Maintenance – 3.8%

• Loan Disbursals – 1.9%

Major Sectoral Allocations In Revised Budget

Education - Rs 52,920 Crore

Rural Development - Rs 39,609 Crore

Urban Development - Rs 38,715

Health - Rs 23,357

Food and Co-Operation - Rs 22,859 Crore

Highways  - Rs 21,524

Energy - Rs 15,828 Crore

Police - Rs 14,552

Transport - Rs 13,561 Crore

Social Welfare - Rs 9,819 Crore

Water Resources - Rs 9,264 Crore

Industries and MSME - Rs 6,556 Crore

Social Justice - Rs 3,938 Crore 

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for home and law & order

• Singapenn Special Task Force for women's safety; Rs.354 crore allocated.

• 65 STING units (Special Task force for Interdiction of Narcotics and Gangs) to tackle narcotics and gangs across Tamil Nadu.

• Rehabilitation Fund for de-addiction; Rs.70 crore allocated.

• New Road Safety Policy; Rs.200 crore under the CM Accident Relief Fund and Rs.130 crore under the Road Safety Fund.

• Rs.431 crore for police residential quarters benefiting 5,000 police families.

• Rs.17,290 crore allocated to the Home, Prohibition and Excise Department.

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for governance reforms

• AI, agentic workflows and speech-to-text tools to modernise government administration.

• Quality Assurance Audit Board backed by AI to monitor file movement and decision quality.

• Governance Processes Reforms Committee under the Chief Secretary to simplify administrative procedures.

• Annual recruitment planner to be published by all recruitment agencies.

• Right to Services Act to be introduced to guarantee time-bound delivery of public services.

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for self-help groups

1. Singappenngal Valimaippaduthum Thittam – Rs.5 lakh investment subsidy for eligible SHG enterprises.

2. Rs.38,000 crore credit target for SHGs under the Annual Credit Plan.

3. Loan and subsidy sanction process to be fully computerised with integrated co-audit.

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for public distribution system

• Doorstep delivery of essential commodities for senior citizens, persons with disabilities and vulnerable communities; Rs.7.18 crore.

• Pilot supply of packaged wheat flour through PDS; Rs.18 crore.

• Rs.14,000 crore for food subsidy.

• Rs.14,830 crore allocated to the Food and Consumer Protection Department.

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for rural development

1. Vetri Veedu Thittam launched for families living in kutcha huts.

2. House construction assistance increased from Rs.3.1 lakh to Rs.5 lakh; 70,000 houses to be sanctioned at Rs.3,500 crore.

3. TN-VETRI to integrate rural infrastructure schemes, with sub-missions for water supply, sanitation, solid waste management and connectivity; Rs.6,000 crore annual allocation.

4. Rs.1,000 crore for peri-urban panchayats and Rs.100 crore for hill village panchayats under TN-VETRI.

5. MGNREGS to be implemented with Rs.12,642 crore, including Rs.5,057 crore State contribution.

6. Vetri 150 to provide an additional 25 days of employment to eligible households; Rs.100 crore annually.

7. Rs.39,609 crore allocated to the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department.

Check out the TN Budget 2026 full document here:

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for water resources

1. Government reiterates opposition to the Mekedatu project, seeks timely Cauvery releases, raising of the Mullai Periyar water level, Anaimalaiyar and Nallar dams, and the Godavari–Cauvery river link.

2. Cauvery–Vaigai–Gundar River Linking Project to begin this year; Rs.150 crore allocated.

3. Rs.50 crore for DPRs for the Pennaiyar–Cheyyar, Pennaiyar–Palar and Tamirabarani–Vaippar river-linking projects.

4. Rs.25 crore for feasibility studies to restore the Cauvery, Vaigai and Tamirabarani rivers.

5. Rs.10 crore for feasibility study on barrages across the Cauvery and Rs.10 crore for ecological restoration of the Cauvery Delta.

6. Rs.9,264 crore allocated to the Water Resources Department.

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for environment, climate change and forests

• TN-SHORE project to restore 2,500 hectares of mangroves across eight coastal districts; Rs.322 crore allocated.

• Human-wildlife conflict mitigation scheme in 100 villages across 11 districts; Rs.20 crore allocated.

• Rs.1,762 crore allocated to the Environment, Climate Change and Forests Department.

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for highways

1. Rs.9,300 crore under the Comprehensive Road Infrastructure Development Programme for four-laning state highways, bypasses, road safety works, bridges and road upgrades.

2. Safe Roads Mission to improve road design, construction, maintenance, AI-based traffic enforcement and trauma care.

3. Rs.250 crore for road repairs under Performance-Based Maintenance Contracts; defects can be reported through the Namma Salai app.

4. Rs.21,524 crore allocated to the Highways and Minor Ports Department.

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for transport

1. 1,000 new air-conditioned electric buses for Chennai MTC under the Gross Cost Contract model; Rs.500 crore for depot infrastructure.

2. Rs.7,675 crore subsidy for State Transport Undertakings, Rs.2,650 crore as performance gap funding and Rs.1,005 crore as share capital assistance.

3. Rs.13,561 crore allocated to the Transport Department.

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TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for metro rail

1. Chennai Metro Phase II (118.9 km) progressing; Poonamallee Bypass–Porur Junction stretch to open shortly.

Metro proposals awaiting Centre's approval:

Chennai Airport–Kilambakkam

Koyambedu–Pattabiram via Avadi

Poonamallee–Sunguvarchathiram via Sriperumbudur

Hosur–Bommasandra (Karnataka) Metro.

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for municipal administration and water supply

1. Chief Minister's Integrated Urban Development Mission launched with Rs.2,117 crore, covering urban infrastructure, water supply, underground sewerage, solid waste management, roads, urban transport, green spaces, water bodies, AI-driven e-governance and urban public health.

2. Intelligent Transport Management System in Chennai in final stages; comprehensive street redesign, smart parking at 20 locations, and road improvements in Ambattur and Guindy industrial estates.

3. Blue-green infrastructure projects around Chennai's water bodies to mitigate urban flooding.

4. Ring Main Pipeline project worth Rs.3,108 crore to ensure round-the-clock drinking water supply across Chennai by 2030–31.

5. People-friendly streets with pedestrian pathways, cycling lanes, junction improvements, safe school access and LED streetlights in all municipal corporations.

6. Global tenders and DPRs to restore the Cooum and Adyar rivers through river rejuvenation.

7. Rs.29,863 crore allocated to the Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department.

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for housing and urban development

1. Third Master Plan (2027–2046) for the Chennai Metropolitan Area (1,189 sq km) is being prepared to guide future growth.

2. Comprehensive Master Plan to be prepared for the expanded Chennai Metropolitan Area, covering 5,904 sq km, benchmarked against global metropolitan planning frameworks; Rs.25 crore sanctioned.

3. SPEED – An AI-enabled single-window planning approval system integrating the CMDA, DTCP and local bodies to provide timely and transparent planning permissions across Tamil Nadu; Rs.40 crore allocated.

4. 24,131 multi-storied tenements under construction to be completed this year; work to begin on 14,194 additional tenements; Rs.1,253 crore allocated.

5. MY-HOME (Metropolitan Youth and Family Housing Scheme) – 1 lakh housing units to be developed in Chennai over seven years through PPP, attracting

6. Rs.15,000 crore investment, supported by Rs.3,500 crore in Viability Gap Funding and a Digital Rental Voucher system.

7. Rs.8,852 crore allocated to the Housing and Urban Development Department.

Land and industrial infrastructure:

New SIPCOT industrial parks will be established in industrially backward districts based on district-specific industrial plans and sectoral strengths, with state-of-the-art infrastructure; approximately Rs.3,200 crore over the next five years.

5. Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli will be declared a Space Industrial Investment Zone, supported by a Space Vehicle Common Technical Facility in collaboration with IN-SPACe.

6. The government will strive to establish more Multi Modal Logistics Parks (MMLPs), Dry Ports, petrochemical and ancillary industries, and explore the possibility of new ports in Tamil Nadu.

7. A new Tamil Nadu Industrial Policy will be released to support innovation, emerging industries, exports and sustainable development.

8. India's first AI and Innovation City, 'Arivagam', will be developed with an AI university, semiconductor testing lab, innovation incubators and residential infrastructure; Rs.5 crore allocated for the feasibility study.

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for MSMEs and textiles

1. Tamil Nadu Women Entrepreneurs Empowerment Scheme – Rs.225 crore.

2. Capital Subsidy Scheme – Rs.352 crore.

3. Green Steel Production Initiative – Rs.300 crore over five years.

4. Tamil Nadu Institute of Design to be established

5. Technical Textiles Transformation Scheme for Entrepreneurs.

6. Tamil Nadu Palmyra Development Corporation – Rs.16 crore.

7. Tiruppur Textiles Technology Centre (TTTC) – Rs.10 crore.

El Nino Preparedness

The Tamil Nadu government has announced special measures to mitigate the impact of a potential super El Nino. A total of Rs 340 crore has been allocated from the State Disaster Response Fund to strengthen drinking water supply, augment water resources and ensure fodder availability for livestock.

Smart Meters

Finance Minister N Marie Wilson on Wednesday announced that smart meters will be installed for all electricity consumers in Chennai, alongside a new rooftop solar subsidy scheme offering up to Rs 1 lakh for households and financial support for Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in residential complexes.

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for industries

1. New Tamil Nadu Industrial Policy to promote innovation, emerging sectors and exports.

2. Guidance 3.0, an AI-powered investment service system, and Tamil Nadu Single Window Portal 3.0.

3. Non-Resident Tamil Investment Facilitation Desk to promote diaspora investment.

4. New SIPCOT industrial parks in backward districts; Rs.3,200 crore over five years.

5. Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli to become a Space Industrial Investment Zone.

6. 'Arivagam', India's first dedicated AI and Innovation City; feasibility study at Rs.5 crore.

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for agriculture

1. Crop loan waiver of Rs.5,932 crore, benefiting 14.43 lakh farmers.

2. Kuruvai Package Scheme with an outlay of Rs.134 crore.

3. Rs.7,432 crore allocated towards electricity subsidy for farmers.

4. Rs.14,984 crore allocated to the Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Department

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for animal husbandry and fisheries

1. Vetri Magalir Goat Rearing Scheme – five goats or sheep with 100% subsidy for eligible beneficiaries; Rs.110 crore.

2. 41 veterinary hospital buildings, 25 veterinary polyclinics, 210 upgraded veterinary hospitals and 143 mobile veterinary units.

3. 'Kaalnadaigal Kaappom' livestock insurance scheme; Rs.31 crore.

4. Fodder seed banks and depots; Rs.13 crore for green fodder cultivation and grazing land restoration.

5. Lean-period fishing assistance increased from Rs.6,000 to Rs.7,000 per family, benefiting 1.93 lakh families; Rs.135 crore.

6. Interest subsidy for purchase of deep-sea fishing boats; Rs.12 crore.

7. Free milch cows for 10,000 eligible women every year; Rs.57 crore.

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for energy

1. New BESS Promotion Policy to attract investment in Battery Energy Storage Systems.

2. Rooftop Solar Subsidy Scheme with subsidy up to Rs.1 lakh; Rs.50 crore allocated.

3. Smart meters to be introduced in Chennai and for 50 lakh industrial and commercial consumers.

4. 178 new substations and replacement of 40,000 transformers.

5. 20,000 public EV charging stations over five years; Rs.50 crore allocated.

6. Subsidy for RWAs to install EV charging stations; Rs.5 crore.

7. Free electricity entitlement increased from 100 units to 200 units for eligible households; Rs.1,545 crore allocated.

8. *Rs.18,860 crore allocated towards electricity subsidy.

TN Budget 2026: Key announcements for AI and IT

1. Tamil Nadu Artificial Intelligence Mission (TN AI Mission) to be strengthened to cover AI, Quantum Technology, AVGC-XR and AI applications across sectors.

e-Sevai 2.0 centres to be rolled out across the State.

2. 'Namma Arasu' WhatsApp Chatbot to expand from 76 to 275 public welfare services.

3. Rs.398 crore allocated to the AI, Information Technology and Digital Services Department.

MY-HOME Housing Scheme

The Tamil Nadu government has launched the MY-HOME (Metropolitan Youth and Family Housing) scheme for Chennai. To be implemented under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model with an investment of Rs 15,000 crore, the project aims to construct one lakh homes over the next seven years for low-income families and young people. The government will provide Rs 3,500 crore as viability gap funding, Finance Minister N Marie Wilson announced.

Chennai Rivers Revamp

The Tamil Nadu government has announced plans to transform the Cooum and Adyar rivers into world-class urban waterways. A detailed feasibility study and project report will be prepared, with proposals including boating facilities, riverfront promenades and recreational spaces. The initiative aims to make the two rivers a new landmark for Chennai.

TN Budget 2026: Key annnouncements for Health

1. 'Thai Maaman Thanga Mothiram Thittam' – Every newborn delivered in a Government hospital will receive a 1-gram gold ring; Rs.560 crore allocated.

2. 1,000 Mobile Geriatric Treatment Centres to be introduced in phases across Tamil Nadu; Rs.33 crore allocated.

3. 'Thai Care' maternity support centres to be established for pregnant women, offering free meals, medical care and health monitoring; Rs.23 crore allocated.

4. Hub-and-Spoke Telemedicine System to connect specialist doctors with Primary Health Centres and Government hospitals, beginning with 5 hubs and 200 spokes; Rs.18.5 crore allocated.

5. Five zonal cancer care hospitals to be established under a Hub-and-Spoke model; Rs.10 crore allocated for preparing the Detailed Project Report.

6. Rs.100 crore additional allocation to ensure an uninterrupted supply of medicines for patients with hypertension, diabetes and cancer.

7. Rs.23,357 crore allocated to the Health and Family Welfare Department.

Key sectoral allocations in the 2026-27 Tamil Nadu Budget:

*.School Education Department: Rs 44,527 crore

*.Higher Education Department: Rs 8,393 crore

*.Labour Welfare and Skill Development Department: Rs 2,022 crore

*.Special Programme Implementation Department: Rs.17,150 crore

*.Cooperation Department: Rs 8,028 crore

*.Agriculture Department: Rs 14,984 crore

Livelihood support scheme

Finance Minister N Marie Wilson announced that the Tamil Nadu government will provide five goats free of cost under a 100% subsidy to widows, destitute women, transgender persons and persons with disabilities. The Budget has allocated Rs 110 crore for the livelihood support scheme.

Rural Sports Plan

The Tamil Nadu government will organise Tamil Nadu Rural Games to promote and showcase the State's traditional sports on the global stage. The Budget has earmarked Rs 42 crore for the initiative, Finance Minister N Marie Wilson announced.

Mother Care Centres

The Tamil Nadu government will establish Thai (Mother) Care service and assistance centres for pregnant women across the State. Expectant mothers nearing delivery can stay at these centres and receive free accommodation, food, medical care and continuous health monitoring. The Budget has allocated Rs 23 crore for the initiative, Finance Minister N Marie Wilson announced.

Cancer Care Expansion

The Tamil Nadu government will establish five regional cancer care hospitals under a Hub-and-Spoke model to strengthen oncology services across the State. The Budget also provides for cancer research and development, with an allocation of Rs 10 crore.

Aandror Membattu Thittam

TN Budget 2026: From anganwadis and senior citizens to disability and transgender welfare, key announcements

1. Aandror Development Scheme – Rs 250 crore allocated for tribal habitations to improve housing, roads, drinking water, streetlights, livelihood infrastructure, community assets, and education-related facilities.

2. Equal Opportunity for All – Rs 462.41 crore allocated to protect the 69% reservation policy through legal efforts and continue the 7.5% medical quota for government school students.

3. Welfare of Persons with Disabilities – Rs 1,485 crore allocated.

4. Social Welfare & Women's Rights – Rs 9,818 crore allocated.

5. Annanin Seer Scheme – Financial assistance for women's marriages with 8 grams of gold and one silk saree; Rs 812 crore allocated.

6. Secular Social Justice Initiatives – Educational assistance for minorities; Haj subsidy increased from Rs 25,000 to Rs 35,000; Rs 1.05 crore for Christian and Muslim women's self-help groups; Rs 34 crore for burial ground and cemetery development.

7. Kamarajar Breakfast Scheme Expansion – Extended to Classes 6-8; benefits 15.14 lakh students; Rs 710 crore allocated.

8. New Old Age Homes – 12 new old age homes to be established across 12 districts; Rs 6.6 crore allocated.

9. Transgender Welfare – Subsidised loans for self-employment with grants up to Rs 50,000; 'Aran' shelter homes in 5 districts; short-stay homes in 15 districts.

10. Anganwadi Upgradation – 500 dilapidated Anganwadi centres to get new buildings with drinking water, toilets, electricity, and improved child-friendly infrastructure.

11. Senior Citizens' Recreation Centres – Libraries, yoga, meditation and indoor recreation facilities to be established initially in 5 districts.

TN Budget 2026: Rs 44,527 crore for education, host of youth-focused schemes

1. RS 44,527 crore allocated for school education.

2. RS 8,393 crore allocated for higher education.

3. RS 277 crore to provide helmets and bicycles to 5.32 lakh Class 11 government and aided school students in 2026–27.

4. RS 10 crore to modernise public libraries into digital libraries.

5. 12th standard syllabus to be updated to include NEET-oriented content.

6. RS 2,000 crore allocated under the Vetri Thiran Payirchi Thittam for skill development.

7. 300 government schools in urban areas to receive modern science laboratories.

8. RS 10 crore to establish Tamil Nadu Students Hostel Development Corporation (TNSHIC/SPV).

9. TN-SUDAR scheme: RS 3,200 crore project to build 200 hostels, with the government contributing RS 640 crore (20%).

10. RS 10 crore for a new initiative to strengthen AI and robotics training in government industrial training institutes (ITIs).

11. RS 3 crore for a minor and small industries apprenticeship training scheme, targeting 22,500 youth over five years.

12. RS 90 crore to establish five new industrial training institutes (ITIs).

Breakfast Scheme Expanded

The Tamil Nadu government has expanded the Perunthalaivar Kamarajar Breakfast Scheme to cover students of Classes 6 to 8. The scheme will benefit 15.14 lakh students studying in 15,414 schools, with an allocation of Rs 710 crore.

As Tamil Nadu's first Budget session commenced, Opposition leaders Udhayanidhi Stalin and Edappadi K Palaniswami, along with TVK MLAs, arrived at the Assembly.

Labour Welfare Boost

The Tamil Nadu government has allocated Rs 2,022 crore to the Labour Welfare and Skill Development Department in the 2026-27 Budget, Finance Minister N Marie Wilson announced.

TN Budget 2026: Major push for education, AI and youth skilling

1. Rs 150 crore allocated for the Vetri Thiran Payirchi Thittam (skills training scheme)

2. 12th pass students and graduates can benefit from the scheme.

3. 20,000 youth from government and private sectors will receive training annually.

4. Monthly financial assistance will be provided to eligible trainees during the training period.

5. 5,000 government school students will receive TN SPARK training.

6. A new AI Economy Mission will be launched to equip students, graduates and professionals with AI skills.

7. Five institutions will receive special financial assistance to promote AI-related education and research.

8. Rs 17,150 crore allocated for the School Education Department.

9. Rs 2,022 crore allocated for the Higher Education Department.

Drug-Free Schools

The Tamil Nadu government has allocated Rs 7 crore for a drug abuse awareness programme in schools. Finance Minister N. Marie Wilson also announced that the Drugs Free Tamil Nadu mobile app will be strengthened to enable the public to report incidents related to the spread of narcotics.

Olympic Centres of Excellence

The Tamil Nadu government will set up 10 Olympic Centres of Excellence across the State to nurture athletes with the goal of winning Olympic gold medals. The Budget has allocated Rs 50 crore for the initiative

Hostel Upgrade Plan

The Tamil Nadu government will establish a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to improve student hostel infrastructure across the State. An initial allocation of Rs 10 crore has been made for the initiative

'Thaimaman Thanga Modhiram'

Rs 560 crore allocated for 'Thaimaman Thanga Modhiram' (Gold Ring) scheme. Under the scheme, every child born in govt hospitals to families permanently residing in Tamil Nadu will receive a one gram gold ring.

Education Department

The Tamil Nadu government has allocated Rs 44,527 crore to the School Education Department in the Budget. Of this, Rs 2,000 crore has been earmarked for the Vetri Laptop Scheme for college students, Finance Minister N Marie Wilson announced.

'Puthiya Payanam Puthiya Vegam scheme'

The Tamil Nadu government has announced the 'Puthiya Payanam Puthiya Vegam scheme', under which 5.32 lakh Class 11 students will receive bicycles equipped with helmets and water bottles. The scheme has been allocated Rs 277 crore in the State Budget, Finance Minister N Marie Wilson said.

Finance Minister Marie Wilson is presenting the first Budget of the TVK government, outlining its fiscal roadmap and key policy initiatives for 2026-27. So far, the government has projected Rs 16,000 crore in additional revenue, including Rs 1,000 crore from a liquor production cess, and announced Rs 129 crore for the 'Super Clean, Super Campus' scheme in 10,000 government schools. It has also announced constitution of a Revenue Enhancement Committee.

The Tamil Nadu government has announced a modernisation programme for 3,734 government schools at an estimated cost of Rs 2,132 crore. An allocation of Rs 300 crore has been made for the project in the current financial year

The Tamil Nadu government has allocated Rs 25 crore for the restructuring and modernisation of the State school curriculum

Revenue Boost Plan

Finance Minister announced that the government will soon constitute a Revenue Enhancement Committee to identify measures for increasing the State's revenue.

Rs 129 crore allocated for 'Super Clean, Super Campus' scheme in 10,000 government schools

Tamil Nadu expects ₹1,000 crore from liquor production cess, ₹15,000 crore through revenue measures; Revenue Enhancement Committee to be set up, says Finance Minister Marie Wilson

Thaimaman Scheme Launch

Finance Minister N Marie Wilson announced that the Thaimaman Seer Thittam will be launched on September 15, the birth anniversary of former Chief Minister CN Annadurai.

Modern residential schools for Classes 9-12 to be set up; free uniforms and textbooks to be provided for them, says Minister Marie Wilson

Under 'Super CM', TVK government to roll out 'Super Campus' and 'Super Safety' initiatives

2036 Economic Vision

The Tamil Nadu government has reaffirmed its goal of transforming the state into a $1.5 trillion economy by 2036, outlining the vision as a key long-term economic objective in the Budget. - Finance Minister Marie Wilson

TVK government will not allow public money to be looted: Finance Minister Marie Wilson reiterates anti-corruption stand

Finance Minister N Marie Wilson quoted the Thirukkural, "Pirappokkum Ella Uyirkkum Sirappovvaa Seithozhil Vettrumaiyaan" ("Birth is common to all living beings; distinction arises only from the different work they perform.") , at the start of his maiden Budget speech in the Tamil Nadu Assembly.

Finance Minister N Marie Wilson began presenting the State Budget by paying tribute to the ideological leaders of the party before commencing her maiden Budget speech.

Expected announcements in focus

Ahead of the Assembly elections, the TVK had made several key promises, including a monthly financial assistance of Rs 2,500 for women heads of families until the age of 60 under the Madhippumikku Magalir Thittam and an unemployment allowance for jobless youth.

TVK-led government’s youth-focused budget will offer new purpose, direction, says Minister Aadhav

The TVK-led government’s first State Budget, which would be presented on Wednesday (August 5), would feature several major announcements across sectors, with a special focus on youth, Minister Aadhav Arjuna said.

The budget would be transformative, carrying announcements aimed at long-term planning for the next 50 years, he said. "The budget will not be a repetition of the previous years. Every department will present announcements with a new purpose and direction, because we are planning for the next 50 years, not just the next election."

CM Vijay vs LoP Udhay to spark fireworks in Budget presentation on Aug 5

Setting the stage for a fiery beginning for the Budget session of the Assembly on Wednesday, the police on Tuesday arrested opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin of the DMK on charges of making derogatory comment against actor Trisha Krishnan and Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay during his speech at a protest over Cauvery water sharing in Thanjavur a day earlier. Udhayanidhi was released on station bail later in the day, as directed by the Madras High Court based on Advocate General Vijay Narayan’s submission that the State government had no intention to seek his judicial remand.

“Our Assembly strategy will be finalised on Wednesday morning. But we will raise the issue of his arrest vigorously in the House," said a DMK leader.

TVK govt to unveil maiden Budget amid fiscal constraints

The government is preparing the Budget amid severe financial constraints and limited fiscal space. Owing to the shortage of funds, it has so far refrained from announcing major welfare schemes, except for the Thaimaman Thanga Modhiram Scheme (Gold Ring scheme).

Finance, Planning and Development Minister N Marie Wilson will present his first Budget after assuming office. 

Green League: TN likely to roll out dedicated Climate Budget with Rs 3,000 cr outlay

Tamil Nadu is likely to become the second State in the country, after Odisha, to introduce a dedicated Climate Budget, with the State government expected to earmark up to Rs 3,000 crore for climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in the Budget to be presented on Wednesday.

A significant portion of the allocation is likely to be utilised for tackling coastal erosion across Tamil Nadu's 14 coastal districts, besides supporting compensation and rehabilitation measures for fishing communities affected by sea erosion and extreme weather events.

Sources added that the proposed fund could also be used for the restoration and ecological rejuvenation of the Pallikaranai marshland, one of the State's most critical wetlands, 

CHENNAI: The first Budget of the Chief Minister Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government will be presented in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly on Wednesday (August 5) amid a politically charged atmosphere.

1. Expected announcements: The Budget could provide clarity on TVK's poll promises, including Rs 2,500 monthly aid for women heads of families under the Madhippumiku Magalir Thittam and an unemployment allowance for jobless youth.

2. Budget being prepared amid severe financial constraints, with the govt so far avoiding major welfare announcements except for the Thaimaman Thanga Modhiram (Gold Ring) Scheme

3. Budget expected to outline govt's fiscal priorities, welfare schemes and development roadmap.

4. Budget will focus on youth and long-term development, with transformative announcements across sectors aimed at shaping Tamil Nadu over the next 50 years: Minister Aadhav Arjuna

5. The govt is also likely to unveil its "Vetri Tamilagam" (Prosperous Tamil Nadu) vision plan.

6. DMK MLAs are likely to boycott the session to protest the arrest of Opposition Leader Udhayanidhi Stalin.

7. Agriculture Budget to be presented on Thursday by Agriculture Minister R Vinoth.

8. General discussion will be followed by Demands for Grants, with the Assembly session expected to continue for around 25 days.

Presenting the Revised Budget Estimates for 2026-27 in the Assembly, Finance Minister N Marie Wilson said the government would provide free milch cows to 10,000 eligible women every year for Rs 57 crore, enabling economically weaker households to earn a sustainable income through dairy farming.

In another major welfare initiative, the government launched the 'Vetri Magalir Goat Rearing Scheme', under which five goats or sheep will be provided free of cost to destitute widows, deserted women, transpersons and persons with disabilities. The scheme, with an outlay of Rs 110 crore, is expected to benefit around 30,000 people across the State.

"The government is committed to creating sustainable livelihood opportunities by strengthening livestock-based rural economies while improving access to quality veterinary healthcare," Marie Wilson said.

The Budget also announced the 'Kaalnadaigal Kaappom' Livestock Insurance Scheme with an allocation of Rs 31 crore to protect livestock owners against financial losses.

To improve veterinary infrastructure, the government will construct 41 new veterinary hospitals, upgrade 25 hospitals into polyclinics and 210 dispensaries into veterinary hospitals, besides deploying 143 new mobile veterinary units to expand animal healthcare services in remote areas.

The Budget also provides for the establishment of fodder seed banks and warehouses and promotes green fodder cultivation and restoration of grazing lands to address feed shortages.

The Animal Husbandry, Dairying, Fisheries and Fishermen Welfare Department has been allocated Rs 4,880 crore.