Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has called on the Union government to release the state’s pending Rs 3,284 crore education funds without tying them to the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020, and its three-language formula. He emphasized that education is a Constitutional responsibility and funding for school education should not be withheld based on policy requirements. Chief Minister Vijay highlighted Tamil Nadu’s educational achievements and emphasized that the release of funds should not be contingent on adopting the NEP or the trilingual policy.
Chief Minister Vijay also stressed the importance of fair resource distribution among states, particularly recognizing those that have excelled in financial discipline, social indicators, and population control measures. He underscored the need for states like Tamil Nadu, which have contributed significantly to the national economy, to receive appropriate recognition and incentives from the Centre.
In a cultural appeal, Chief Minister Vijay urged the Union government to designate the Thirukkural, a revered Tamil literary work by Thiruvalluvar, as India’s National Literature. He highlighted the universal values of the Thirukkural that transcend linguistic and regional boundaries, offering timeless wisdom for humanity.
Furthermore, Chief Minister Vijay raised concerns about the welfare of Tamil Nadu fishermen detained in neighboring countries, urging swift diplomatic action to secure their release and ensure their safe return. He emphasized the livelihoods of coastal families dependent on fishing and called for continuous diplomatic efforts to protect Indian fishermen operating in international waters.
The Chief Minister’s address at the NITI Aayog meeting covered key areas such as education, federal rights, cultural recognition, and fishermen’s welfare. He reiterated Tamil Nadu’s stance on state autonomy and fair treatment within the federal system.
