T.N. Budget evokes mixed reaction from trade bodies, experts
The Tamil Nadu government's revised budget has received mixed reactions from trade bodies, with some criticizing inadequate allocations for MSMEs and infrastructure, while others praise the focus on education and long-term economic goals. Key points of contention include the lack of funding for specific rail projects versus the approval of new metro corridors.
Why it matters
The budget reflects the state's economic priorities and its strategy to reach a $1.5 trillion economy, impacting industrial growth and public infrastructure development.
As Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Marie Wilson presented the Revised Budget in the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, trade forums expressed mixed responses to the government’s economic roadmap for the year.
Tamil Nadu Chamber of Commerce and Industry said the Budget fell short of industrial expectations, terming it largely disappointing. Chamber president N. Jegatheesan criticised the allocation of only ₹2,142 crore to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises sector as inadequate, and pointing out the lack of announcements for new industrial estates.
Apart from a new special government law college for Madurai, the Budget lacked standout development projects for southern Tamil Nadu, he said and expressed deep disappointment over the absence of allocations for long-pending Madurai and Coimbatore Metro Rail projects, as well as Madurai– Thoothukudi and Chennai– Kanyakumari industrial corridors.
Further, he considered the ₹8,393 crore allocated to higher education insufficient to support the growing student population.
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