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.

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.

Responding to reporters' queries on reports that Tamil Nadu was planning to raise the water level in the century-old dam, Satheesan said the issue remained under dispute.

"Official-level talks are already underway. We are seriously considering a meeting at the CM level as well," Satheesan said.

Built in 1895, the Mullaperiyar dam has long been a bone of contention between Tamil Nadu, which owns and operates the dam, and Kerala, where it is located.

While Tamil Nadu has consistently maintained that the dam is structurally safe and has sought to raise the water level, Kerala has repeatedly expressed concerns over the safety of the century-old structure and has been demanding the construction of a new dam near the existing one.

Presenting the TVK regime's first agriculture budget, Vinoth said the budget has been prepared following consultations with stakeholders and farm schemes in vogue will continue to be implemented in addition to new initiatives.

On the super El Niño event, the minister said that efforts have been stepped up to tackle it in the state by implementing Tamil Nadu Agricultural University's action plan.

Presenting the Budget, the minister said the financial statement had been prepared after incorporating suggestions from farmers and agricultural exporters. He added that the Budget was framed in line with the Chief Minister's long-term vision for the state's agricultural development.

Vinoth said the government would continue all ongoing agricultural schemes while introducing several new initiatives aimed at strengthening the sector. He stressed that agriculture remains the backbone of the economy and said no other sector could function effectively if agriculture was neglected.

Ahead of the presentation, DMK MLAs arrived at the Assembly wearing black shirts as a mark of protest.

TN Agriculture Budget 2026 Highlights

*. The government has allocated Rs 122.51 crore to launch the Tamil Nadu Soil Conservation Mission aimed at protecting soil fertility across the state

*. Minister Vinoth announced that the government has earmarked Rs 34.72 crore under a special State government scheme for the production of paddy seeds and subsidy on their distribution.

*. The government will launch an AI-powered farmer application to provide personalised digital services to cultivators, with Rs 2 crore allocated for the initiative in the 2026–27 Agriculture Budget.

*. Rs 203.64 crore allocated for a Self-Sufficiency Mission for Pulses and Oilseed Crops to boost domestic production and reduce dependence on imports.

*. Rs 63.81 crore allocated for the Tamil Nadu Millet Mission to increase the cultivation area, production, and productivity of millets across the state under the theme "Ancient Tamil food, enduring healthy living."

*. Rs 7.61 crore allocated for the Tamil Nadu Minor Millets Mission to double the cultivation of minor millets such as little millet, foxtail millet, kodo millet, barnyard millet, and proso millet, promoting them as nutritious and climate-resilient crops.

*. Rs 30 lakh allocated to establish demonstration plots for cultivating high-nutrition crops such as quinoa, buckwheat, and brown top millet, with the aim of promoting the revival of neglected grains.

*. Rs 27.21 crore allocated for the Cotton Revival Mission to boost cotton production, improve crop quality, and enhance farmers' income.

*. Rs 36 crore allocated for the Maize Production Enhancement Scheme to increase maize cultivation, improve productivity, and boost farmers' income.

*. Rs 17.70 crore allocated for the Agroforestry Scheme to promote permanent green cover on farmlands by encouraging tree plantation alongside agricultural crops.

*. Rs 7.35 crore allocated for the Wild Boar Crop Damage Prevention Scheme to protect farmlands from wild boar attacks and reduce crop losses.

*. Rs 3.4 crore allocated to establish 50 village-level farm machinery rental centres with 80% subsidy, with 30% of the centres reserved for women self-help groups (SHGs).

*. Rs 8.5 crore allocated to create 500 farm ponds with 100% subsidy and desilt 500 existing farm ponds with 75% subsidy to improve on-farm water conservation and irrigation.

*. Rs 6 crore allocated to provide back-ended subsidy for borewells or tube wells for 500 general category farmers, with a maximum subsidy of 60%, to bring 1,000 acres under irrigation.

*. Rs 23 crore allocated to install solar-powered off-grid pump sets for 1,000 farmers with up to 80% subsidy, promoting sustainable irrigation and reducing dependence on conventional power sources.

*. Rs 8.13 crore allocated to establish 50 integrated farm machinery rental business centres for crop cultivation and value addition, improving farmers' access to modern agricultural equipment.

*. Rs 49.4 lakh allocated for a pilot Blue-Green Horticulture Project in coastal districts to establish freshwater wells and promote the cultivation of chillies and coriander.

*. Rs 2.8 crore allocated to provide threshing floors to 100 farmers with 50% subsidy, helping reduce post-harvest losses and improve grain handling.

*. Rs 20.31 crore allocated to procure 463 agricultural machines and implements to strengthen the e-Vaadagai 2.0 app-based farm machinery rental service offered by the Agricultural Engineering Department.

*. Rs 1.12 crore allocated with 50% subsidy to establish 15 agricultural machinery repair and maintenance centres to improve equipment servicing and reduce downtime for farmers.

*. Rs 46.37 lakh allocated to conduct 100% subsidised end-to-end mechanisation demonstrations across 225 acres for maize, groundnut, black gram, and coconut cultivation.

TNCCI president N Jegatheesan said the allocation of Rs 2,142 crore for the MSME sector was inadequate, considering that the sector is the backbone of the economy. He also expressed disappointment over the absence of any announcement on establishing new industrial estates in the State.

The Chamber further noted, barring the proposal to establish a Special Government Law College (School of Excellence in Law) in Madurai, the Budget contained no major development initiatives for southern TN. There were no announcements on the long-pending Madurai–Thoothukudi Industrial Corridor and the Chennai–Kanyakumari Industrial Corridor projects. While welcoming the proposed Metro Rail corridors in Chennai and the Bengaluru–Hosur Metro Rail project, the Chamber criticised the government for not making any announcement or financial allocation for the proposed Metro Rail projects in Madurai and Coimbatore.

“The proposal to introduce river tourism along the Cauvery, Vaigai, and Tamiraparani rivers, as well as the announcement of boat transport services on the Adyar and Cooum rivers in Chennai, appears to be impractical and raises serious concerns regarding its feasibility under the prevailing environmental and infrastructural conditions,” said Jegatheesan

Presenting the Revised Budget Estimates for 2026-27 in the Assembly, Finance Minister N Marie Wilson said the technology-driven reforms were aimed at reducing physical interface between citizens and government officials, improving transparency and making service delivery faster and more efficient.

Under the new initiatives, the Commercial Taxes Department will introduce Faceless Assessment under the GST regime, enabling technology-based scrutiny of tax returns and minimising discretionary intervention while strengthening compliance.

The Registration Department, meanwhile, will implement Faceless Registration, allowing citizens to complete registration-related processes through a digital platform with minimal physical interaction.

The government will launch Anywhere Registration, enabling people to register documents at any designated Sub-Registrar’s Office in the State, irrespective of where the property is located.

“The Government is harnessing technology to build a transparent, efficient and citizen-friendly administration while improving revenue mobilisation,” Marie Wilson said.

The Commercial Taxes and Registration Departments have been allocated Rs 651 crore and Rs 475 crore, respectively.

Speaker of the House JCD Prabhakar will open the day's session with a recitation of Thirukkural, after which Minister for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, R Vinoth, will present the agricultural budget estimates.

Against the backdrop of ongoing political discussions and debates over the Cauvery water dispute, the Mekedatu dam project, and farm loan waivers, this separate agriculture budget carries significant political and socioeconomic significance.

This follows the general state budget presented on Wednesday by State Finance Minister N Marie Wilson.

The debate on the main budget estimates and the agriculture budget estimates will begin from August 7.

Accordingly, the whole budget session of the Tamil Nadu Assembly will be held till September 8.

The initiative will leverage artificial intelligence for speed and traffic enforcement, dedicated road patrols, and advanced trauma care centres.

Finance Minister N Marie Wilson said the government remains committed to developing world-class, durable, safe, and sustainable roads.

He announced an allocation of Rs 9,300 crore under the Comprehensive Road Infrastructure Development Programme for widening State highways to four lanes, constructing bypasses, carrying out road safety works, building pedestrian overbridges, upgrading panchayat and panchayat union roads to district roads, building bridges, and improving riding quality.

Acknowledging that roads across Tamil Nadu have deteriorated due to inadequate maintenance, leading to potholes and uneven surfaces, the minister announced Rs 250 crore in the Revised Budget Estimates to repair damaged stretches under the Performance-Based Maintenance Contract model.

The government will also launch the Namma Salai mobile application, enabling citizens to photograph and report road defects for prompt rectification.

Overall, the Highways and Minor Ports Department has been allocated Rs 21,524 crore in the Revised Budget Estimates.

Rs 21,524 crore Outlay for Highways

Rs 9,300 crore Allocation for road infra

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.

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

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 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.