The Tamil Nadu budget for 2024-2025 introduces promising schemes addressing societal needs, potentially enhancing the government's popularity. While experts offer mixed perspectives, opposition parties criticize fiscal prudence and implementation efficacy. The budget's true electoral impact remains uncertain pending voter response.
Impact of Tamil Nadu Budget on Upcoming Elections
Introduction of Favorable Schemes:
Kalaignar Kanavu Illam scheme promises eight lakh concrete houses for the homeless.
Free bus travel for women enhances government's appeal among female voters.
Extension of breakfast scheme to rural areas and government-aided schools lauded.
Expert Perspectives:
Senior journalist Priyan says budget's lack of strategic electoral focus.
CPI(M) member K Kanagaraj applauds budget's comprehensive welfare measures.
Opposition Criticism:
Opposition parties raise concerns over deficit-driven budget and escalating government debt.
Doubts cast on budget's ability to translate into tangible electoral gains.
The third budget of the Stalin government for the financial year 2024-2025 has been presented, emphasizing additional allocations for education, health, and infrastructure. The question arises: will these announcements influence the upcoming elections?
The Kalaignar Kanavu Illam scheme, aiming to construct eight lakh concrete houses for the homeless, may favor the DMK government. Schemes like the women's entitlement scheme and free bus travel for women are expected to bolster support for the DMK, especially among female voters. Extension of the breakfast scheme to rural areas and provision of breakfast for government-aided school students have also been well-received.
Senior journalist Priyan suggests that while the budget includes commendable schemes, it does not seem tailored for electoral gains. Immediate benefits like cooking gas subsidy or monthly electricity bill payments could have had a more significant impact. He notes missed opportunities such as reducing diesel prices and providing immediate benefits to the people.
CPI(M) state executive committee member K Kanagaraj views the budget favorably, highlighting its wide-ranging benefits for various sections of society. From housing schemes to educational support and employment opportunities, he believes the budget will substantially improve lives and garner electoral support.
However, opposition parties criticize the budget as a deficit one, raising concerns about increased government debt and its adverse effects on the people. They argue that the budget announcements may not translate into electoral advantages.
While the Tamil Nadu budget presents promising schemes, its electoral impact remains to be seen. While some perceive it positively for its comprehensive welfare measures, others criticize it for fiscal imprudence. Ultimately, the electorate's response will determine the significance of these budget announcements in the upcoming elections.
This copy was originally written Journalist by A Palaniappan and appeared in vikatan.com. Here is the english reversion.