Many TN dists backward, caste politics impeding growth, says Guv Ravi

CHENNAI: Governor RN Ravi on Monday expressed concern over the prevailing socio-economic disparities in certain districts of Tamil Nadu, highlighting issues such as severe backwardness and malnutrition.

Speaking at the Telangana State Formation Day celebrations held at Raj Bhavan here, Governor Ravi drew attention to the administrative rationale behind the reorganisation of states.

“In 1956, the country witnessed the formation of 15 linguistic states to enhance administrative efficiency and ensure effective delivery of welfare schemes to the poor and marginalised. Telangana was carved out of Andhra Pradesh 11 years ago with the same intent,” he noted.

The Governor criticised divisive and caste-based politics, stating that they had impeded genuine development.

“After Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office in 2014, his government has consistently focused on inclusive development under the mantra of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’. As a result, 120 of the nation’s most underdeveloped districts have seen significant improvement through targeted welfare interventions,” he said.

Ravi remarked that a few districts in Tamil Nadu continue to lag behind. “There are still regions in the State where development remains elusive and malnutrition among students persists,” he observed.

Praising India’s economic growth, he said, “Before 2014, India ranked 11th globally. Today, we are the world’s fourth-largest economy and poised to reach the third position soon.” He also referred to the swift success of “Operation Sindoor” against Pakistan, attributing it to the efficiency and preparedness of the Indian Armed Forces.