CHENNAI – In a strategic move ahead of state assembly elections, Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu presented the interim budget for 2026-27 in the Fort St. George assembly on Tuesday. The budget places heavy emphasis on welfare schemes, education, sports development, and cultural infrastructure, signaling the government’s priorities for the coming years.
Thennarasu highlighted Tamil Nadu’s humanitarian spirit by noting the dispatch of relief materials worth Rs 197 crore to neighboring Sri Lanka during its recent economic crisis. This gesture underscores the state’s commitment to regional solidarity.
Key allocations include Rs 718 crore for sports development, a significant boost to nurture athletic talent across the state. Rural development receives a massive Rs 28,687 crore, aimed at uplifting village economies and infrastructure. The Special Programme Implementation Department gets Rs 17,088 crore, with Rs 10 crore specifically earmarked for promoting Tamil language among global diaspora communities.
Social welfare remains a cornerstone, with Rs 5,463 crore allocated for pensions supporting widows, destitute women, and the elderly. Education sees substantial funding: Rs 48,534 crore for school education and Rs 8,505 crore for higher education, ensuring accessible learning opportunities.
The minister announced Rs 1,471 crore for differently-abled welfare, including 4% reservation in appointments and promotion opportunities in public employment. He praised the Chief Minister’s breakfast scheme for dramatically improving school attendance and learning outcomes.
Cultural preservation takes center stage with Rs 285 crore for new museums: a grand Chola museum in Thanjavur, one at Gangaikondacholapuram, Noyyal Museum in Erode, Navai Museum in Ramanathapuram, and new galleries for Bronze Age and Indus Valley artifacts at Egmore Government Museum in Chennai. A Tamil cultural museum in Tiruvannamalai is also planned. Recently opened Kizhadhi and Porunai museums have received overwhelming public response.
Thennarasu lauded the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam as a pioneering initiative recognizing women’s unpaid domestic labor, providing Rs 1,000 monthly assistance. Its success has inspired other states to adopt similar programs.
This interim budget not only addresses immediate needs but sets a visionary path for Tamil Nadu’s inclusive growth, blending welfare, education, and cultural heritage.