Tamil Nadu Contributes More to PM-Led Central Schemes, Says CM M.K. Stalin

Central Schemes, Says CM M.K. Stalin

In a sharp response to recent remarks made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin stated that the state government contributes more funding to several central schemes that prominently feature Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s name and image. Stalin emphasized that Tamil Nadu plays a significant role in funding these initiatives, and accused the BJP of engaging in unfair criticism.

Tamil Nadu’s Larger Role in Central Schemes

Addressing the issue via a post on his official ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) handle, Stalin said that Tamil Nadu’s financial commitment to flagship Central programs like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), and the Jal Jeevan Mission has been substantial.

He pointed out that although these schemes are often portrayed as entirely funded by the Union government—with the Prime Minister’s name and image attached—state governments like Tamil Nadu actually contribute a major share of the funding.

“Only the state government contributes more funds to schemes that carry the PM's name and his image on sticker—PMAY, PMMSY, and Jal Jeevan,” Stalin wrote.

Political Context: Response to Amit Shah

Stalin’s comments come in response to Union Minister Amit Shah’s recent statements suggesting that states like Tamil Nadu are heavily dependent on Central funds and do not contribute adequately. By tagging a media report highlighting the funding structure, Stalin pushed back against that narrative.

He criticized the BJP government’s stance and called for an end to what he described as politically motivated misinformation.

"The BJP government should at least now stop throwing stones from a glass house," he said, referencing the proverbial phrase that warns against hypocrisy.

The Larger Debate: State vs. Centre

This exchange highlights the ongoing tension between the Centre and states governed by opposition parties. Stalin and other regional leaders have frequently argued that the Union government takes disproportionate credit for schemes where states bear a significant portion of the cost.

In Tamil Nadu’s case, Stalin maintains that while the BJP government seeks political mileage from these schemes, it is actually the state that ensures their effective implementation and financial support.

Final Thoughts

As the debate over fiscal federalism intensifies ahead of upcoming elections, Stalin's comments underscore a growing sentiment among non-BJP-ruled states: that credit and control over development programs must be more equitably distributed.

Stay tuned for more updates on the evolving Centre-State dynamics, political statements, and governance issues shaping Tamil Nadu and the nation.