Stalin Urges Timely Release of Central Funds for Welfare Schemes

Chennai, Sept 2025 : Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Friday appealed to the central government to release its share of funds to the state promptly, stressing that timely financial assistance is vital for the effective implementation of integrated welfare and development schemes.

Stalin made this request while chairing a meeting of the State-Level Development, Coordination, and Monitoring Committee at the Secretariat in Chennai. The review meeting focused on the progress of key departments, including health, agriculture, and welfare initiatives for persons with disabilities.

Highlighting Tamil Nadu’s social welfare achievements, Stalin noted that the state is implementing schemes with a strong focus on inclusivity and transparency. He said that 3.38 lakh self-help groups (SHGs) are currently active across villages, comprising 55.12 lakh members. Among them are 1.57 lakh elderly and tribal beneficiaries who receive targeted support through SHGs.

He further pointed out that Tamil Nadu has been declared a malnutrition-free state, largely due to the success of the nutritious Midday Meal Scheme, which has also contributed to improved child growth indicators. On the agricultural front, he underlined that Tamil Nadu provides a 55% subsidy to small farmers and 45% to other farmers, ranking first in India in farmer welfare initiatives.

Reiterating the state’s commitment to efficiency, Stalin said, “Our government releases its share of funds for all joint schemes immediately without delay. We expect the central government to follow the same approach and ensure timely release of its contribution.”

Stalin concluded that Tamil Nadu’s welfare and development programs are designed to reach the most marginalized sections of society, ensuring inclusive growth across all sectors.