The Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) President Anbumani Ramadoss has presented a comprehensive “General Shadow Budget” for Tamil Nadu for the financial year 2026-27. This proposal includes significant initiatives such as the creation of one lakh government jobs and a subsidy of Rs 300 on domestic LPG cylinders. Moreover, the PMK plans to implement total prohibition in the state starting from October 2.

According to the shadow budget, Tamil Nadu’s projected revenue receipts stand at Rs 6,71,891 crore, while the total expenditure is estimated to reach Rs 6,96,149 crore. The PMK has calculated a revenue surplus of Rs 61,179 crore alongside a fiscal deficit of Rs 24,258 crore for the year.

The PMK has declared its intention to start a Social Justice Survey in Tamil Nadu on September 17, following the completion of a house-listing exercise for a caste-based population census. An allocation of an additional Rs 500 crore to the Backward Classes Commission has also been proposed.

Key Employment and Welfare Initiatives

One of the central features of the shadow budget is the PMK’s employment strategy, which seeks to provide one lakh government positions over the remaining six months of the financial year. This plan encompasses the recruitment of 25,000 teachers, 5,000 assistant professors, and an additional 17,000 candidates through the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC).

The PMK has also introduced a subsidy scheme for domestic LPG usage, proposing a Rs 300 subsidy per cylinder, applicable for up to six cylinders per household annually. This measure addresses the recent surge in LPG prices attributed to ongoing conflicts in the Gulf region.

The initiative for total prohibition aims to cancel all licenses for liquor and beer production, providing alternative employment for TASMAC employees affected by this policy. The proposed changes indicate a significant shift in the state’s approach to alcohol regulation.

Social and Agricultural Proposals

In terms of agricultural policy, the PMK has earmarked Rs 68,000 crore for the Agriculture Department and Rs 25,000 crore for irrigation projects. The party has committed to a complete waiver of crop loans, accompanied by compensation for Kuruvai farmers and an annual assistance program of Rs 24,000 for agricultural labourers.

Further educational initiatives include provisions for free education up to the postgraduate level for children of farmers, along with plans to expand the Cauvery Protected Agricultural Zone to cover nine districts.

Plans for Infrastructure and Water Management

The PMK has set forth ambitious plans for Chennai, proposing free travel for all passengers on Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) buses and an increase in the number of buses to 7,000. Additionally, they suggested transforming the Koyambedu bus terminus into a public park once bus operations are relocated to alternative terminals.

On the topic of water management, the PMK has pledged to oppose the proposed Mekedatu Dam on the Cauvery River. They have also expressed their intention to advocate for an increase in the water level of the Mullaperiyar Dam to 152 feet as soon as feasible.

This shadow budget reflects the PMK’s comprehensive strategy aimed at economic growth, social justice, and infrastructural development in Tamil Nadu, marking a significant moment in the state’s political landscape.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share