The first budget of the new DMK government, presented by Finance Minister PTR Palanivel Thiagarajan in the State Assembly Friday, carries Chief Minister M K Stalin’s unique stamp all over it.
For, it is a well-balanced blend of welfare measures and economic reforms, as the State badly needs both. Also, many important promises made by Stalin during election campaign have been fulfilled by the Budget, especially the cutting down of State taxes on petrol and diesel.
The DMK government, which prides on the slogan ‘Sonnadhai seivom, Seivadhai selvom’ coined by former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, has walked the talk. At a time when Tamilnadu is facing unprecedented revenue deficit and mounting debts, it was a tight rope walk to present the Budget without new taxes. But still, the government led by Stalin has delivered it, that too without compromising on welfare measures. Many departments have received record allocations, a clear indication of reforming, rejuvenating and refurbishing the State on all counts in the years to come.
The first Budget of the DMK government has laid a strong foundation for growth and reforms. Also, it has raised its voice to safeguard the legitimate rights of the State. From students to entrepreneurs to women to youth, there is something for everyone in the Budget. Stalin and Palanivel Thiagarajan deserve praise for carefully preparing the document which would act as guiding force in leading Tamilnadu on the path of growth. Bouquets to the budget.