
Sun Mar 16 16:03:29 UTC 2025: ## Tamil Nadu CM Defends Budget Logo, Highlights State’s Financial Management
**Chennai, March 16, 2025** – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin defended the inclusion of the Tamil alphabet ‘ரூ’ (rupee symbol) in the 2025-26 budget logo, asserting it was a deliberate move to highlight the state government’s commitment to Tamil language policy. He dismissed criticism as stemming from those opposed to the Tamil language.
In a video Q&A session, Stalin stated that the use of ‘ரூ’ was a minor detail that was unnecessarily amplified. He further highlighted his government’s efforts in securing funds from the central government for various schemes, including the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme and disaster management initiatives. He noted that even the Union Finance Minister had referenced ‘ரூ’ in her posts, underscoring the national attention given to both the budget and the Tamil language.
Stalin detailed the extensive process involved in creating the state budget, emphasizing consultations with economic advisory committees, grassroots feedback, and case studies from other states and countries. He cited positive media coverage, including from *The Hindu* and *The Hindu BusinessLine*, and noted the use of social media feedback in finalizing the budget.
Inspired by Telangana’s initiative, Stalin announced the inclusion of members of the third gender in Tamil Nadu’s Home Guards. He dismissed negative criticism from opposition parties, stating that constructive feedback would be considered, but purely negative criticism only reflects their opposition to the government.
Addressing concerns about increasing state debt, Stalin pointed out that borrowing, while inevitable, has decreased since 2021 and is being utilized as an investment for future generations. He concluded by outlining his future plans, which include ensuring timely implementation of budget announcements and advocating for the state’s rights regarding pending funds and the proposed delimitation process.